US Container Imports Drop Hinting at Economic Slowdown

US Container Imports Drop Hinting at Economic Slowdown

Descartes' latest report reveals a significant drop in US import container volume, down 16.2% month-over-month and 25.0% year-over-year, but consistent with pre-pandemic levels. Multiple factors contribute to the decline, including increased port congestion, stabilization of East and West Coast port shares, and the rise of smaller ports. Experts advise businesses to diversify supply chains, strengthen inventory management, monitor policy changes, embrace digital transformation, and cautiously navigate global trade challenges.

01/16/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Shipware Experts Assess Parcel Market Trends and Tariff Effects

Shipware Experts Assess Parcel Market Trends and Tariff Effects

Shipware experts provide an in-depth analysis of the current parcel and express market in a podcast, covering rate trends, peak season outlook, and tariff impact. They advise businesses to monitor market changes, optimize logistics strategies, and establish transparent partnerships with carriers. Furthermore, they recommend planning ahead for peak seasons and adapting flexibly to changes in international trade policies. By doing so, companies can reduce logistics costs and enhance competitiveness in the evolving global landscape. Proactive planning and strategic partnerships are key to navigating market volatility.

01/15/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Container Imports Fall in September Signaling Economic Slowdown

US Container Imports Fall in September Signaling Economic Slowdown

Descartes reported that U.S. container imports decreased by 8.4% in September compared to August, but are still up 1.9% year-to-date. Imports from China saw a sharp decline, with widespread decreases among major trading partners. East Coast ports gained market share. The data reflects the impact of seasonal factors, trade policy uncertainty, and a slowdown in global demand. The overall trend suggests a complex interplay of economic forces affecting U.S. import activity.

01/15/2026 Logistics
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US Port Traffic Drops Sharply Amid Trade Disruptions

US Port Traffic Drops Sharply Amid Trade Disruptions

Descartes' latest report reveals a significant drop in US port container volume in May, impacted by trade volatility and tariff policies, with a substantial decline in imports from China. The report highlights changes in US port throughput, major exporting countries' exports to the US, and shifts in market share between East and West Coast ports. This provides crucial insights for businesses to navigate trade risks. The decline is primarily attributed to ongoing trade tensions and their effect on global supply chains.

01/15/2026 Logistics
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Intermodal Transport Growth Halts After 25quarter Streak

Intermodal Transport Growth Halts After 25quarter Streak

The Intermodal Association of North America (IANA) reports the first decline in total intermodal volume after 25 consecutive quarters of growth. While domestic containers showed resilience, trailer volumes continued to decline, and international ISO container volumes fell more than expected. Companies should focus on the domestic container market, optimize transportation networks, strengthen collaboration with IMCs, monitor policy changes, diversify services, and embrace technological innovation to address market challenges and seize development opportunities.

01/19/2026 Logistics
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US Ports and Waterways Struggle Amid Infrastructure Crisis

US Ports and Waterways Struggle Amid Infrastructure Crisis

The United States' port and inland waterway infrastructure receives low ratings and faces a significant funding shortfall. This report advocates for increased investment to modernize and improve efficiency. Addressing this investment gap is crucial to reshape the future of waterborne transportation and ensure its competitiveness. Prioritizing infrastructure upgrades will enhance supply chain resilience and support economic growth by optimizing the movement of goods through ports and inland waterways.

01/19/2026 Port Encyclopedia
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Shenzhen Port Hits Record 35 Million Teus in 2023

Shenzhen Port Hits Record 35 Million Teus in 2023

In 2025, Shenzhen Port's container throughput exceeded 35 million TEUs, a year-on-year increase of over 5%, reaching a record high. Through route innovation, industrial synergy, and green intelligent operation, Shenzhen Port has not only enhanced its own competitiveness but also provided a replicable development paradigm for global ports. In the future, Shenzhen Port will continue to deepen reforms and make greater contributions to the economic development of China and the world.

01/06/2026 Logistics
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Freight Forwarders Adopt Streamlined HS Code Solutions

Freight Forwarders Adopt Streamlined HS Code Solutions

Troubled by HS code lookup? We offer a convenient and efficient HS code lookup service, covering massive data to ensure you quickly find the required codes. Furthermore, our experienced customer service team is available to provide professional consultation, helping you become an international freight forwarding elite and easily cope with international trade challenges.

08/21/2025 HS Code Query
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China Updates Baggage Declaration Rules for Travelers

China Updates Baggage Declaration Rules for Travelers

This article provides a detailed guide on completing the "Customs Declaration Form for Inbound/Outbound Passengers of the People's Republic of China," emphasizing the importance of truthful declaration. It explains key points, common mistakes, and precautions for filling out the form, aiming to help travelers pass through customs smoothly and avoid unnecessary problems. The guide covers aspects like item descriptions, quantities, and values. It also mentions professional customs declaration and inspection services for complex situations, ensuring compliance and efficient processing of luggage and personal effects.

08/21/2025 Document Interpretation
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Streamlining International Returns Customs and Tax Refunds

Streamlining International Returns Customs and Tax Refunds

This article delves into the return shipment operations in international freight, focusing on the customs and tax refund procedures to ensure that businesses efficiently comply with customs and tax requirements, minimizing risks of delays and financial losses. By clarifying the status of goods and dynamically managing tax refunds, it aids companies in optimizing their return shipment strategies.

07/02/2025 Customs Knowledge
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