The NCBFAA (National Customs Brokers & Forwarders Association of America) has informed their Australian counterpart IFBCAA of the affects the current United States Government Shutdown may have on shipping.

The U.S. Government shut down at 12:01 a.m. (U.S. time) on 1 October 2025 after funding measures failed in the Senate.

While some essential federal functions continue, staff furloughs and reduced services may slow aspects of import/export processing. Shipments that require Partner Government Agency support (e.g., FDA-regulated goods) could face delays where reviews or pre-market activities are curtailed.

• CBP operations: U.S. Customs and Border Protection is expected to remain largely operational at ports of entry; cargo processing continues.

• Partner Government Agencies (PGAs): Coverage may be patchy and unpredictable (e.g., Departments of Agriculture and Transportation), which could affect permits, inspections and related approvals.

It is recommended that customers build in additional time to their goods delivery ETAs where PGA interaction is required.

Many of the ports around the US remain open with business as usual, however reports say that the delays will be seen with Customs Clearances, inspections etc.

It should also be noted that any Customs employees that are working, are doing so without pay.

We will keep you updated as more information comes in.

The DDWL Team

News courtesy of IFCBAA and various world news websites.