Updated Guidance #4: Jones Act Waiver for the Department of War (March 17, 2026)
CBP issued a fourth updated guidance document implementing the Jones Act waiver granted to the Department of War, clarifying procedures for coastwise trade movements conducted under the waiver. Importers and carriers moving domestic cargo that may intersect with waiver-covered shipments should confirm whether their movements qualify or remain subject to standard Jones Act restrictions.
Jones Act waivers create narrow corridors of relief and each guidance update can shift which vessel types or routes qualify; we are tracking this closely for clients moving goods between U.S. ports to ensure no inadvertent Jones Act violations.
AI-assisted summary of a published CBP, USITC or Federal Register notice, with JFS CHB's position on it. For awareness only — always verify against the official notice before acting. Our position is general commentary on a published notice, not legal advice and not a binding opinion on any shipment. Nothing here creates a broker-client relationship or a duty of care, and it is not a substitute for a ruling, a licensed review of your facts, or the official notice itself.