The tightening of US tariffs has caused a historic 30.5% fall in Spanish exports to the United States in August. In this context, multimodal transport is emerging as the key response to logistics challenges, optimising costs and ensuring operational continuity in critical sectors such as automotive and pharmaceuticals.
We analyse the causes, consequences and the value proposition of Logistics Express for companies seeking to maintain their international competitiveness despite the new commercial landscape.
Multimodal Transport Context: The Impact of Tariffs on Spanish Exports
According to data from El País, the imposition of a 15% tariff by the United States in August has hit the automotive and pharmaceutical industries particularly hard. The result: a drastic reduction in export volumes, with direct consequences for the trade balance and the national supply chain.
This situation aggravates the challenges facing logistics services in Spain, straining strategic routes and complicating customs clearance procedures. Autonomous communities with significant export activity, such as the Canary Islands, also face additional complexities due to their island status.
- 30.5% decline in exports to the US (August 2025).
- Most affected sectors: automotive and pharmaceuticals.
- Increase in customs controls and delays.
- Rise in logistics and transport costs.
The Essential Role of Multimodal Transport in the Current Environment
Multimodal transport makes it possible to combine different transport modes (maritime, road, air and rail) under a single integrated management system. This solution is becoming essential for:
- Minimising risks associated with regulatory and tariff changes.
- Optimising times and costs on international routes.
- Improving logistics traceability and adaptability.
- Guaranteeing regulatory compliance and agility in customs clearance.
- Meeting the specific needs of island territories such as the Canary Islands.
In the words of Sara Martínez, Operations Director at Logistics Express:
“Modal diversification and proactive customs management are differentiators today. Our multimodal approach guarantees flexibility and security for Spanish exporters, even in scenarios of maximum uncertainty.”
Logistics Express Value Proposition in Multimodal Services
As a leading operator in multimodal solutions, Logistics Express offers:
- Advanced technology integration for full shipment traceability.
- Certified expertise in international logistics and customs compliance (see certifications).
- Reach on Spain-US routes and management in territories such as the Canary Islands.
- Tailored solutions: full loads, groupage and last-mile delivery.
- Personalised attention and consultancy on complex customs processes.
Success Cases: Agile Adaptation in the Face of New Tariffs
Several Spanish companies in the pharmaceutical and automotive sectors have trusted Logistics Express to maintain their international commitments following the entry into force of the tariffs. Thanks to multimodal transport and the optimisation of customs clearance, the following results have been achieved:
- An 18% reduction in door-to-door transit times.
- A reduction in overall logistics costs compared to single-mode options.
- Avoidance of customs holds and penalties.
These results demonstrate the importance of working with an expert logistics operator in multimodal transport.
Practical Guide: How to Adapt Your Logistics in the Face of New Tariffs
- Analyse the tariff impact and adjust your logistics contracts.
- Choose providers with certified expertise in customs management.
- Opt for flexible routes combining maritime, road and air modes.
- Implement real-time tracking and traceability systems.
- Consult the current regulations at the Spanish Tax Agency.
Trends, Regulations and Recommendations for Spanish Exporters
The trend towards greater trade protectionism demands increasingly sophisticated logistics solutions. Multimodal transport, together with expert management of customs clearance, will be decisive in overcoming regulatory and tariff barriers, particularly in demanding markets such as the United States.
New Customs Regulations and Digitalisation
Spain has strengthened documentary controls and customs digitalisation to streamline procedures. Logistics Express makes integrated digital platforms available to its clients to maximise compliance and operational efficiency (see multimodal solutions).
Innovation and Sustainability
Our commitment to sustainable logistics adapted to new environmental regulations guarantees responsible and competitive operations. Discover more in our logistics sustainability section.
Conclusion and Next Action
The current situation demands innovative logistics responses. The combination of multimodal transport, customs expertise and technology makes Logistics Express your ideal partner to overcome the US tariff challenge and optimise your international operations.
Would you like to analyse how multimodal transport can protect your business? Contact the expert team at Logistics Express for a personalised consultation on multimodal solutions.
