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Import cargo may set new record as potential August tariffs loom

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July 21, 2026

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Import volume at major U.S. container ports is forecast to hit a new all-time record this month, driven by retailers stocking up ahead of expected tariff increases, according to the Global Port Tracker report from the National Retail Federation and Hackett Associates.

"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," NRF Vice President for Supply Chain and Customs Policy Jonathan Gold said in a press release. "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. Despite ongoing economic headwinds, consumers are continuing to spend, but affordability is a key factor affecting their spending habits."

While temporary 10% Section 122 global tariffs that took effect in February are set to expire July 24, a new round of tariffs are expected to be imposed by the Trump administration as early as August.

The Trump administration tariffs will amount to an average tax increase, per U.S. household, of $1,300 in 2026, according to data from the Tax Foundation organization,. Tariffs cost U.S. households $1,000 in 2025.