Retailers accelerate imports ahead of expected tariffs

WASHINGTON — Import traffic at the nation’s major container ports is expected to reach a record level in July as retailers, pharmaceutical suppliers and other importers move products into the United States ahead of potential new tariffs that could take effect as early as August.

The latest Global Port Tracker report from the National Retail Federation and Hackett Associates projects July import volume at 2.47 million twenty-foot equivalent units (TEU), surpassing the previous monthly record of 2.4 million TEU set in May 2022.

For pharmacies and health care suppliers, the report underscores ongoing uncertainty about global trade and supply chains as companies seek to secure inventory before additional duties could raise costs.

“This year’s early peak season is expected to continue through July as retailers and other importers prepare for potentially higher tariffs beginning in August and other trade uncertainties,” said Jonathan Gold, NRF vice president for supply chain and customs policy.

Gold said importers are moving goods into the country early as retailers prepare for both the back-to-school and holiday shopping seasons and seek to avoid potential price increases.

“The busy back-to-school selling season has already started, and the winter holidays won’t be far behind, so retailers have been working to get products into the U.S. and ready to go before new tariffs can potentially drive prices higher,” Gold said. “Despite ongoing economic headwinds, consumers are continuing to spend, but affordability is a key factor affecting their spending habits.”

Temporary 10% Section 122 global tariffs, implemented in February, are scheduled to expire on July 24. The Trump administration is also expected to impose a new round of tariffs related to forced labor concerns as early as August, prompting many businesses to accelerate shipments.

“Import volumes have risen sharply, with strong growth likely continuing into July,” said Ben Hackett, founder of Hackett Associates. “Much of this increase reflects frontloading ahead of expected tariff increases.”

Major U.S. ports handled 2.24 million TEU in May, the latest month with final data, up 14.9% from a year earlier and 10.1% above April levels. June imports are projected at 2.33 million TEU, bringing first-half 2026 volume to an estimated 12.77 million TEU, a 2% increase over the same period last year.

While July is expected to set a new monthly record, import activity is forecast to ease later in the year. August volume is projected at 2.22 million TEU, followed by 1.99 million TEU in September and October, and 1.92 million TEU in November.

The report noted that the traditional autumn peak shipping season has shifted earlier as businesses adapt to evolving trade policies, supply chain disruptions, and the need to build inventory well in advance of seasonal demand.

U.S. ports handled 25.4 million TEU in 2025, slightly below the 25.5 million TEU recorded in 2024.