Container Imports to the US at One of the Highest Levels

In July, US container imports increased sharply and reached the fourth-highest level in history for that month. According to Descartes Systems Group, companies are attempting to bring goods into the US before new tariffs take effect.

In July, American ports received 2.5 million TEU, or twenty-foot equivalent units of cargo. This is 4.3% lower compared to July 2025. Particularly notable was the surge in goods imported from China. In July, the figure exceeded 873 thousand TEU, marking the highest level in the past year. China remains the largest supplier of containerized goods to the US, despite the Trump administration imposing multiple tariffs on Chinese products.

At the end of July, the 10% tariff period also expired and was replaced by new tariffs of up to 12.5% on certain products from 60 countries. The change applies to goods whose production, according to US government assessment, may involve forced labor. Approximately half of American container imports are accounted for by Walmart, Amazon, and Home Depot.

According to Descartes, the situation for international trade remains difficult. Problems in the Strait of Hormuz and the Red Sea, restrictions on the Panama Canal, and frequent changes in US tariffs increase shipping costs. As a result, companies often have to change both routes and suppliers.

Source: Investing.com