July US container imports hit fourth-highest on record, Descartes says

• Chinese-origin imports rose to 873,129 TEUs in July, the highest monthly volume in a year, despite ongoing U.S. tariffs targeting Chinese goods
• In late July, 10% global tariffs expired and were replaced by new tariffs of up to 12.5% on imports from 60 countries tied to allegations of trade violations
• The traditional peak shipping season has shifted earlier and extended longer due to supply chain upheavals including the pandemic, conflicts affecting Red Sea shipping, and rapidly changing U.S. tariff policies

Summary: July US Container Imports Hit Fourth-Highest on Record

Key Figures:

U.S. seaports processed 2.5 million twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) in July, marking the fourth-highest level on record for the month, according to Descartes Systems Group. This represents a 4.3% decline from July 2025's near-record result. Year-to-date imports through July 2026 decreased 0.9% year-over-year but remain significantly above pre-COVID pandemic levels.

Main Companies and Sectors:

Major retailers including Walmart, Amazon.com, and Home Depot account for approximately half of all U.S. container imports. Chinese-origin imports reached 873,129 TEUs in July—the highest monthly volume in a year—with China remaining the largest container goods supplier to the U.S. despite ongoing tariffs.

Market Drivers:

Shippers accelerated imports ahead of changing U.S. tariff policies. In late July, 10% global tariffs expired and were replaced by new tariffs up to 12.5% on imports from 60 countries. The traditional peak shipping season for autumn and winter holiday merchandise has extended and arrived earlier as companies respond to ongoing supply chain disruptions.

Market Implications:

Descartes cited an "unsettled" trade environment with multiple risk factors affecting freight costs, routing decisions, and sourcing strategies, including:

• Elevated Strait of Hormuz risk
• Changing U.S. tariff measures
• Tighter Panama Canal draft restrictions
• Continued Red Sea disruptions

These factors suggest sustained volatility in shipping costs and supply chain management, with importers front-loading shipments to mitigate tariff and geopolitical risks.