Import Volumes Forecast to Hit All-Time High in July

Washington, DC, July 9, 2026—Import volume at the nation’s major 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 released by 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, noting continued supply chain impacts from the conflict in Iran. “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.”

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

“Import volumes have risen sharply, with strong growth likely continuing into July,” Hackett Associates Founder Ben Hackett said. “Much of this increase reflects frontloading ahead of expected tariff increases.”