September is set to become this year’s peak import month, according to the National Retail Federation and Hackett Associates. Their Global Port Tracker shows monthly inbound cargo at major US container ports will stay above 2 million TEUs through October, reflecting a flatter peak shipping season this year, with retailers spreading cargo volumes across more months rather than concentrating them in one sharp surge.
Ports handled 2.02 million TEU in April, up 13.2% from a year earlier. May was projected at 2.09 million TEU, while June was forecast at 2.11 million TEU. July was expected to reach 2.1 million TEU, followed by 2.17 million in August, 2.06 million in September, and 2.01 million in October.
NRF said retailers were stocking up to meet consumer demand, particularly ahead of the peak shipping season. Other factors included retailers restocking after strong sales, getting ahead of higher tariffs on Chinese goods, and building inventory for the holiday season. Overseas port congestion was also affecting operations and shipping rates.
