WTDC Newsletter – August 28, 2026
CBP compliance will begin with strict enforcement of Importer of Record data accuracy.
The agency will begin enforcing strict data accuracy for IOR records.
Review and update your Importer of Record information on file with CBP.
Changes can be made using CBP Form 5106.
Importer information must be accurate and current.
It should belong only to the IOR, not a customs broker, freight forwarder, agent, or a PO Box.
Starting September 18, 2026, CBP will immediately void Importer of Record (IOR) numbers if associated identity data is inaccurate or incomplete, blocking entry of goods.
CBP – Strengthening Customs Enforcement
President’s Corner At WTDC, we work closely with our customers and partners to support CBP compliance requirements.
CBP’s increased enforcement of Importer of Record information makes it essential for importers to review their company name, identification number, physical and mailing addresses, email address, and telephone number.
Inaccurate information may lead to a voided importer number, shipment delays, or other enforcement actions.
We encourage all customers to pay close attention to these changes and contact WTDC with any questions or concerns.
Best regards, Sean Gazitua, President & CEO
Large vessel call exposes Port Everglades channel constraint
On August 10 at Port Everglades, the 13,050-TEU MSC Vandya became the largest container vessel to call at the port. Current depth restrictions required the ship to arrive lightly loaded. Port officials say the existing channel effectively limits inbound vessels to roughly 8,000 TEUs.
The call demonstrates the commercial argument for the Port Everglades Navigation Improvements Project. Deeper and wider channels would let carriers use larger vessels more efficiently and reduce delays and transportation costs for South Florida cargo.
Port Everglades: Water Depth Challenges Impact Largest Cargo Ship to Call Port Everglades
Port Everglades harbor-improvement overview
CBP targeting transshipments
On August 13 in Washington, the administration estimated that illegal transshipment costs the United States $19 billion to $26 billion in annual tariff revenue. Officials also said CBP is testing AI-assisted targeting to identify suspicious origin patterns.
CBP is now more authorized to address origin scrutiny, audits, supply-chain documentation, importer accountability, and penalties.
ST&R: White House Targets Transshipment as Customs Crackdown Continues
Internship Program
Welcome to the team, Lilian! Lilian Flores is a senior at Florida International University College of Business, studying Logistics and Supply Chain Management. Lilian graduates Fall 2026 is completing a Marketing and Business Development Internship this fall at WTDC. She is also assisting in the development and roll out of our Intern Alumni initiative.
Internship Program at WTDC
Panama Canal lowers draft limits
On August 5 in Panama City, the Panama Canal Authority announced two additional draft reductions for vessels using the Neopanamax locks. The maximum authorized draft will fall to 48 feet on August 26 and 47.5 feet on September 3.
The Canal Authority based the reductions on current and projected water levels in Gatun Lake. It has used water-conservation measures since December 2025 while preparing for the dry season and monitoring El Niño. These represent the fourth and fifth draft adjustments announced this year. The Canal does not plan to reduce daily vessel transits at this time.
Lower draft limits restrict how heavily vessels can load. Carriers may need to reduce cargo, revise stowage plans, divide shipments, or adjust routes. These decisions could affect capacity, rates, and delivery schedules for cargo moving between Asia and ports in Florida and along the U.S. East Coast.
Panama Canal: Advisories
MIA cargo grows 11.5% in first half of 2026
Miami International Airport’s June report showed nearly 1.84 million cargo tons during the first six months of 2026, up 11.5% year over year. Freight tonnage increased 11.79%. Passenger traffic declined 0.62% over the same period.
Cargo is outperforming passenger activity and reinforces MIA’s role as Miami’s trade gateway. The result also supports continued investment in cargo capacity, handling infrastructure, and surrounding logistics services.
Miami Today summary of MIA statistics