Simply Trade

Series 5 – Episode 6

Hosts:
Renee Chiuchiarelli & Julie Parks (Hammer & Heels)

Length: ~12 minutes
Format: Simply Trade Tips

Episode Summary
In this final installment of the Trade & Tech series, Renee and Julie deliver what many listeners have been asking for:

👉 Who should we call when we’re ready to automate?

This episode serves as a practical cheat sheet — a high-level recap of the key categories of trade technology and the types of providers operating in each space.

From product and entity data to import/export execution, learning platforms, and audit analytics, Renee and Julie walk through where automation fits, what problems it solves, and what types of solutions companies are leveraging today.

They also emphasize an important disclaimer: the trade tech space is evolving rapidly. New entrants are emerging, existing platforms are expanding capabilities, and buyers should always conduct current research before issuing an RFP.

The goal of this episode isn’t endorsement — it’s orientation.

Series Recap: The Big Picture
Across this series, one theme remained constant:

Trade is too complex to run on spreadsheets forever.

Technology doesn’t replace trade professionals — it strengthens them.

Clean data drives better decisions.

Automation builds structure, execution, capability, and proof.

Episode Breakdown
Episode 1: The Foundation

Trade programs often rely on tribal knowledge and heroics

Technology introduces structure

Data in → Decisions out → Proof stored

Episode 2: Product & Entity Data
Focus: Organizing trade requirements at the product and company level

Categories discussed:

Classification & denied party screening platforms

End-to-end compliance tools with workflow and audit logs

Supplier onboarding and traceability tools (including UFLPA and CTPAT support)

Supply chain intelligence platforms

Broker-enabled onboarding tools

Key takeaway:
If your product and supplier data isn’t clean, everything downstream — entries, audits, refunds — gets messy.

Episode 3: Importing & Exporting Execution
Focus: Running the day-to-day engine

Areas covered:

Entry filing & broker connectivity

Document management & visibility

Transportation Management Systems (TMS)

Export controls & licensing workflows

Leveraging broker and forwarder technology stacks

Important reminder:
Tariff exposure and compliance risks often start upstream — automation must support early decision-making, not just filing.

Episode 4: Learning & Embedded Education
Focus: Building capability

Calendar training vs. real-time (inflow) learning

Role-based, embedded, and trackable education

LMS integration and audit defensibility

Continuous reinforcement vs. one-time onboarding

Learning isn’t a side activity — it’s infrastructure.

Episode 5: Auditing & Analytics
Focus: Proof and defensibility

Automation supports:

Classification consistency

Valuation flags

FTA claims validation

PGA data checks

Entry accuracy monitoring

Tools often connect to:

GTM platforms

ERP systems

Broker data feeds

ACE data

Business intelligence dashboards

Bottom line:
Audit tech helps companies identify overpayments, prevent penalties, and stay ready for CBP review.

The Big Wrap
If you remember nothing else from this series:

Product & entity tech gives you structure.

Import/export tech gives you execution.

Learning tech gives you capability.

Auditing tech gives you proof.

Where Should You Start?
Start where the pain is greatest:

Too many manual screening hits? → Automate denied party screening

Supplier questionnaire chaos? → Traceability tools

Entry surprises or duty errors? → Execution platforms

Constant fire drills? → Auditing & monitoring tools

And don’t forget:

Your customs broker or freight forwarder may already offer automation tools embedded in their services — often more cost-effective than standalone implementation.

This Episode’s FIO (Figure It Out)
Ask your broker or freight forwarder:

👉 What automation tools are already available to us?
👉 What data visibility can we access today?
👉 What are we not leveraging?

Sometimes the first step isn’t buying new software — it’s using what you already have.

Join the Conversation
Which area of trade automation are you prioritizing in 2026?

Structure? Execution? Capability? Proof?

Join us inside the Trade Geeks Community and let us know where you’re starting.

Credits
Hosts:
Renee Chiuchiarelli
Julie Parks

Producer:
Lalo Solorzano

🎧 Subscribe & Follow
New Simply Trade Tips episodes every Tuesday.

Presented by:
Global Training Center — education, consulting, workshops & compliance resources for trade professionals.

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Global Training Center on LinkedIn

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Host: Annik Sobing
Guest: Scott Sorenson (CEO at CITTA Brokerage Company) 
Published: February 2026
Length: ~25–30 minutes
Presented by: Global Training Center

IEEPA Tariffs Struck Down: What Importers Can Do Now (and What They Still Can’t)

In this Simply Trade Roundup, Annik talks with Scott Sorenson, CEO of SIDA Brokerage, about the Supreme Court’s decision that the president exceeded his authority by using the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) to impose broad, revenue‑raising tariffs—and what that actually means for importers on the ground. They unpack which tariffs are impacted, what stays in place, key timing details, the refund question, and how duty drawback fits into all of it.​

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

What the Supreme Court actually decided

Why the Court held that tariffs are fundamentally a tax, and that power belongs to Congress unless clearly delegated by statute.

How the ruling targets IEEPA‑based tariffs, not all tariffs.​

Which tariffs are affected—and which are not

Impacted:

The 2025 “drug trafficking” (fentanyl) tariffs on Mexico, Canada, and China (25% under an emergency declaration).

The later “reciprocal” tariffs, also imposed under IEEPA, with rates starting at 10% and going higher based on perceived trade imbalances.

Not impacted:

Section 232 (steel/aluminum) and Section 301 tariffs introduced in Trump’s first term (2018–2019), which remain in place and were not struck down.​

Key timing: when IEEPA tariffs actually stop

CBP will stop collecting IEEPA tariffs on goods entered for consumption or withdrawn from warehouse for consumption on or after 12:00 a.m. Eastern, February 24, 2026.

Goods entering or withdrawn before that time (including February 23) are still being charged IEEPA duties, despite the Court’s ruling—creating a frustrating “limbo” day for importers.​

The big unknown: refunds on IEEPA duties

It is still unclear whether, and how, importers can obtain refunds of IEEPA tariffs already paid.

Many trade attorneys are advising against simple protests and instead suggesting participation in, or filing of, Court of International Trade lawsuits as the likely avenue—though eligibility and timelines remain unsettled.

Open questions include whether only parties that joined lawsuits before the Supreme Court decision will qualify, and how any refund mechanism would practically work given estimates of over 100 billion dollars collected.​

New 15% global tariff under Section 122

Following the ruling, President Trump announced a 10% global tariff, then quickly raised it to 15%, on top of all existing non‑IEEPA tariffs.

This measure relies on Section 122 of the 1974 Trade Act, which allows the president to impose tariffs for up to 150 days.

Scott expects this to serve as a bridge while the administration seeks a longer‑term, more permanent tariff framework—possibly through new legislation or other authorities.​

Duty drawback: where it fits and where it doesn’t

Duty drawback basics: refunds of duties/tariffs on imported goods that are later exported or destroyed, a program that has existed for nearly 250 years and has become more critical as tariffs have risen.

Inconsistencies across programs:

Fentanyl/“drug trafficking” IEEPA tariffs were explicitly ineligible for drawback.

Reciprocal IEEPA tariffs were eligible.

Section 232 tariffs are not eligible; Section 301 tariffs are.

For the new Section 122 15% tariffs, eligibility will likely depend on whether they are explicitly excluded in future guidance. Historically, exclusions have been clearly spelled out, so silence may mean eligibility.​

Drawback vs. potential IEEPA refunds

Drawback is separate from any Supreme Court‑related IEEPA refund mechanism.

Importers that already claimed drawback on IEEPA‑burdened goods and later receive a broader IEEPA refund would need to avoid double dipping—likely refunding drawback amounts if they also get a full tariff refund via litigation/settlement.

For importers that don’t export, drawback isn’t an option, so any recovery depends entirely on whatever refund path, if any, emerges for IEEPA tariffs.​

Should you start or expand a drawback program now?

Scott’s answer: yes, especially if you export.

Reasons:

Tariff volatility is likely to continue, and the administration has signaled interest in more and longer‑term tariffs.

Drawback is one of the few mitigation tools that works retroactively, not just going forward.

Setting up a drawback program and getting CBP approval takes time; starting now puts you closer to the front of the line for future refunds.​

Key Takeaways

The Supreme Court has ended IEEPA’s use as a broad revenue tool, but IEEPA tariffs are only stopping prospectively as of February 24, and refund mechanics for the past year remain unresolved.​

Section 232 and 301 tariffs are untouched and remain fully in force; the tariff landscape is far from “back to normal.”​

A new 15% Section 122 global tariff is already in play and may evolve into something more permanent, so importers should plan for continued elevated duty costs.​

Duty drawback remains a powerful, underused mitigation strategy—especially given the uncertainty around IEEPA refunds and future tariffs.​

Presented by: Global Training Center​

Listen & Subscribe

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Connect with Simply Trade

Podcast page: https://www.globaltrainingcenter.com/simply-trade-podcast​

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/simply-trade-podcast​

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SimplyTradePod​

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Trade Geeks (by Global Training Center): https://globaltrainingcenter.com/trade-geeks/

Host: Cindy Allen
Published: February 20, 2026
Length: ~18 minutes
Presented by: Global Training Center

Summary
“Tariff Friday” may go down as one of the most pivotal days in recent trade history.

In this episode of Simply Trade: Cindy’s Version, Cindy Allen breaks down the U.S. Supreme Court’s 6–3 decision ruling that IEEPA does not authorize the President to impose tariffs. The Court found that the authority to levy taxes and tariffs belongs to Congress, and that the term “regulate” under IEEPA does not include the power to raise revenue.

Inspired by Taylor Swift’s Opalite, Cindy walks through what the ruling actually says, what it does not say, and what importers and customs brokers should do right now while awaiting further instruction from the Court of International Trade (CIT) and CBP.

The decision may have brought sunlight—but operational clarity will take time.

This Week in Trade (Before the Ruling)
• Awaiting details on Taiwan 15% MFN (or higher) structure
• Pending clarification on India IEEPA reciprocal adjustment (25% to 18%)
• Indonesia agreement announced with 19% tariff and textile tariff-rate quota
• No movement on elimination of First Sale
• No further action on ending IEEPA on Canada
• U.S. manufacturing indicators down; stock market up

The Supreme Court Decision
The Supreme Court issued a 6–3 opinion finding that IEEPA does not grant authority to impose tariffs.

Key findings:

• IEEPA contains nine enumerated action verbs — none include taxing or raising revenue
• Congress alone holds the constitutional authority to levy tariffs
• Specific delegated authorities (Sections 301, 232, 122, 338) include limitations and procedural controls
• Because Congress created these specific tariff authorities, a broad IEEPA tariff authority cannot be implied
• During peacetime, the President does not have independent tariff authority

The Court remanded the case back to the lower court — likely the U.S. Court of International Trade (CIT) — which must now issue implementation instructions.

What We Still Don’t Know
• When the CIT will issue instructions
• When (or if) CBP will suspend IEEPA tariff collection
• Whether refunds will be automatic or require action
• Whether de minimis is affected
• Whether related trade agreements tied to IEEPA remain intact
• Whether the administration pivots to Section 122 or 338 authorities

What Importers Should Do Right Now
Cindy’s recommendation is clear:

Continue paying duties until formal CBP guidance is issued.

Why?

• Duties were in effect at time of entry
• Monthly statement entries could otherwise be considered unpaid
• CBP systems still contain IEEPA tariff numbers and edit checks
• Programming updates will take time

Stopping payment prematurely could create compliance risk.

Refunds, when issued, will likely require formal action — potentially protests, post-summary corrections, or other ACE updates. Given the volume of entries involved, automatic refunds appear unlikely.

Key Takeaways
• IEEPA tariffs have been ruled unlawful for revenue purposes
• Congress retains sole tariff authority
• Operational changes will depend on CIT and CBP implementation
• Continue paying duties until official guidance is issued
• Refund mechanics remain unclear
• Trade professionals must remain disciplined and patient

Resources & Mentions
• Global Training Center
• TradeForce Multiplier
• U.S. Supreme Court Opinion (24-1287)

Credits
Host:
• Cindy Allen – LinkedIn
• TradeForce Multiplier

Producer:
• Lalo Solorzano – LinkedIn

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Presented by Global Training Center — providing education, consulting, workshops, and compliance resources for trade professionals.

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• Trade Geeks Community

Episode: #444
Hosts: Andy Shiles & Lalo Solorzano
Guest: Kristi App, Chief Commercial Officer, Port of New Orleans
Published: February 2026
Length: ~35 minutes
Presented by: Global Training Center

🏗️ Episode Summary
This week, Andy and Lalo shift gears from tariff talk and policy debates to something just as critical — port infrastructure and cargo flow.

They sit down with Kristi App, newly appointed Chief Commercial Officer for the Port of New Orleans, to discuss her transition from a multi-generational family customs brokerage to one of the most important trade gateways in the United States.

From Mardi Gras humor to multimodal logistics strategy, this conversation dives into:

The economic impact of the Mississippi River complex

Why the Port of New Orleans is uniquely positioned with all six Class I rail connections

The realities of competing with Brazil and Argentina in agricultural exports

Panama Canal water levels and their impact on Gulf trade

Infrastructure challenges (including bridge air draft restrictions)

And the future $2 billion container terminal expansion in Violet, Louisiana

Kristi brings a rare perspective — someone who has worked export ops, import brokerage, business development, and trade advocacy — now sitting on the port side making strategic infrastructure decisions that shape supply chains.

If you work in logistics, brokerage, importing, exporting, or trade policy, this episode gives you a behind-the-scenes look at how ports think — and how that thinking impacts your freight.

🚢 Key Takeaways

The Lower Mississippi River complex feeds, fuels, and powers the world — over 60% of U.S. grain exports flow through it.

The Port of New Orleans is the only deep-draft U.S. port connected to all six Class I railroads.

Freight always has a choice — ports must remain competitive and multimodal.

Brazil and Argentina have become serious competitors in global ag exports.

The Panama Canal’s stabilization benefits the entire Gulf ecosystem.

The Crescent City Connection bridge creates air draft limitations for larger container vessels.

A new $2 billion container terminal (2 million TEU capacity) is in final permitting stages — a generational infrastructure project.

Retain, repatriate, and grow cargo: the port’s commercial strategy in three words.

🌎 Why This Matters to Trade Professionals
Kristi emphasizes something important:

Ports are the nexus of trade — but they only work if infrastructure investments match market demand.

For brokers and importers/exporters, that means:

More routing options

Multimodal flexibility (rail + river + interstate)

Competitive Gulf Coast alternatives

Future-ready capacity for larger vessels

This episode is a reminder that policy debates are one thing — but infrastructure is what actually moves goods.

📍 Industry Events Mentioned

TPM Conference – Long Beach

Journal of Commerce Breakbulk Conference – New Orleans (April 20–22)

🔗 Resources & Mentions

Kristi App – LinkedIn

Port of New Orleans

National Customs Brokers & Forwarders Association of America (NCBFAA)

Journal of Commerce

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers – Mississippi River Channel Management

🎧 Credits
Hosts:
Andy Shiles
Lalo Solorzano

Guest:
Kristi App, Chief Commercial Officer, Port of New Orleans

Produced & Presented by:
Global Training Center

📢 Subscribe & Follow
Stay connected with the Simply Trade community:

LinkedIn – Andy Shiles

LinkedIn – Lalo Solorzano

LinkedIn – Global Training Center

YouTube – Simply Trade Podcast

Spotify – https://open.spotify.com/show/09m199JO6fuNumbcrHTkGq?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast

Apple Podcasts – https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/simply-trade/id1640329690?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast

Trade Geeks Community – https://globaltrainingcenter.com/portal/?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast

Series 5 – Episode 5

Hosts:
Renee Chiuchiarelli & Julie Parks (Hammer & Heels)

Length: ~12 minutes
Format: Simply Trade Tips

Episode Summary
In this episode of Simply Trade Tips, Renee and Julie tackle a topic that doesn’t always get the spotlight it deserves: learning.

With trade rules shifting constantly — tariff changes, executive orders, enforcement priorities, and regulatory updates — relying on static training or tribal knowledge simply isn’t enough. Traditional “calendar training” (scheduled webinars, annual sessions, policy rollouts) still has value, but it’s disconnected from daily operations.

The big idea? Learning must move from a side activity to core infrastructure.

Renee and Julie introduce the concept of “inflow learning” — contextual, real-time training embedded directly into workflow systems. Instead of pausing work to learn, professionals access guidance at the exact moment they need it. This shift makes compliance more resilient, scalable, and defensible in today’s enforcement environment.

Key Topics Covered

Why static training creates operational gaps

The difference between:

Calendar training (scheduled sessions)

Inflow training (embedded, contextual learning)

How automation can trigger learning during:

Origin determinations

Classification decisions

Filing processes

Audit reviews

Role-based learning paths for importers, exporters, and compliance teams

Micro-learning triggered by real-time errors

Using AI to generate contextual training from existing materials

Why regulators expect documented training as part of “reasonable care”

How embedded learning reduces repeat errors and improves confidence

Why knowledge in trade is no longer theoretical — it impacts entries, exports, and balance sheets immediately

Key Takeaways

Learning must be integrated into daily workflow, not isolated from it

Automation supports better decision-making without replacing expertise

Real-time learning reduces repeat errors and strengthens defensibility

Training documentation can become powerful evidence during audits

Trade compliance in today’s environment requires resilience, not just proactivity

This Episode’s FIO (Figure It Out)
Take a moment to evaluate your current training model:

Is your team relying mostly on scheduled sessions?

Do your systems provide contextual, real-time learning prompts?

Have you asked your software provider about embedded guidance tools?

Have you explored advanced or hybrid learning models that combine live instruction with digital access?

Dip your toe in. Explore what’s available. Demand better integration between learning and operations.

Join the Conversation
How is your organization approaching trade training in 2026?
Are you relying on memory — or building infrastructure?

Join us inside the Trade Geeks Community and share what you’re doing to make learning more resilient.

Credits
Hosts:
Renee Chiuchiarelli
Julie Parks

Producer:
Lalo Solorzano

🎧 Subscribe & Follow
New Simply Trade Tips episodes every Tuesday.

Presented by:
Global Training Center — education, consulting, workshops & compliance resources for trade professionals.

Connect With Us

Simply Trade Podcast on LinkedIn

Global Training Center on LinkedIn

YouTube

Spotify

Apple Podcasts

Trade Geeks Community

💬 Don’t forget to rate, review & share with your fellow trade geeks!

Want to Be on the Show or Have Topic Suggestions?
📧 [email protected]
🐦 Twitter/X: @SimplyTradePod