U.S. Ports Braced for Busiest February in Three Years Amid Tariff Rush
February is set to be the busiest month in three years for U.S. ports, with a projected 2.07 million TEU, as retailers rush to import goods ahead of potential tariff increases. This surge follows a 13.4% year-over-year increase in January, totaling 2.22 million TEU.
The first half of the year is expected to reach 12.78 million TEU, a 5.7% increase from the same period last year. This is due in part to retailers stockpiling merchandise in anticipation of rising tariffs. The U.S. has implemented several tariffs on Chinese goods since early 2025, with rates ranging from 10% to 50%, significantly impacting import volumes.
Carriers are considering strategies to mitigate the impact of a proposed new fee of $1 million to $1.5 million per Chinese-built ship docking at a U.S. port. They may use larger vessels and consolidate calls at major ports to reduce costs. Despite these efforts, the fee could further increase costs for cargo owners and consumers. While imports are expected to remain elevated through this spring, volume could see year-over-year drops this summer due to tariffs and other factors. June and July could see the first year-over-year declines since September 2023.
U.S. ports are preparing for a busy February, with retailers importing goods ahead of potential tariff increases. While carriers explore strategies to mitigate the impact of a proposed new fee, the industry braces for potential volume drops this summer due to tariffs and other factors.
