US Container Imports Surge on Strong China Demand Descartes

US Container Imports Surge on Strong China Demand Descartes

A recent Descartes report reveals a significant increase in total U.S. container imports, driven by rising imports from China. January saw a 7.9% month-over-month and 9.9% year-over-year increase in U.S. import container volume. A 14.9% surge in exports from China to the U.S. was a key contributor. The report also highlights ongoing challenges to the global supply chain, including the Panama Canal drought and Middle East conflicts, both impacting transit times.

02/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Container Imports Rise As Supply Chains Adjust Descartes

US Container Imports Rise As Supply Chains Adjust Descartes

Descartes' global shipping report reveals a significant increase in US container imports and a strong rebound in Chinese imports. However, port performance varies, and supply chain challenges persist. The report analyzes the drivers behind import growth, the disparities in port performance, and shifts in market share between East and West Coast ports. It also provides a future outlook on the supply chain, offering businesses recommendations on how to navigate challenges and capitalize on opportunities. This report is crucial for understanding the current state and future trends of global shipping.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Imports Fall As Descartes Notes Supply Chain Risks

US Imports Fall As Descartes Notes Supply Chain Risks

The latest Descartes report reveals that while US import volume in November experienced a seasonal dip, it still showed year-over-year growth. The year-to-date import volume has already surpassed last year's total. US-China trade has cooled slightly but remains robust. The report also highlights import changes across the top ten US ports and source countries, along with port transit delays. Potential tariffs, labor negotiations, and geopolitical risks will continue to impact the supply chain.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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Descartes Buys Shiptrack to Boost Lastmile Delivery Amid Ecommerce Surge

Descartes Buys Shiptrack to Boost Lastmile Delivery Amid Ecommerce Surge

Descartes' acquisition of ShipTrack aims to strengthen its last-mile delivery capabilities and address the challenges posed by e-commerce growth. ShipTrack's cloud-based mobile resource management and shipment tracking solutions will be integrated with Descartes' existing platform to provide more comprehensive and efficient last-mile logistics services. This integration will help meet consumer demand for real-time information and solidify Descartes' leading position in the logistics software and services sector. The acquisition will enhance Descartes' ability to offer end-to-end solutions for e-commerce retailers and logistics providers.

01/15/2026 Logistics
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US Container Imports Surge in September Amid Strong China Demand

US Container Imports Surge in September Amid Strong China Demand

The Descartes report indicates a surprising 0.3% increase in U.S. container imports in September, defying typical seasonal declines, with significant contributions from Chinese imports. Long Beach and Tacoma ports led the gains, boosting the West Coast ports' market share. Businesses should closely monitor market dynamics, diversify sourcing strategies, and enhance supply chain resilience to navigate these evolving trade patterns.

01/27/2026 Logistics
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US Container Imports Slow in June Amid Trade Shifts

US Container Imports Slow in June Amid Trade Shifts

Descartes' latest report reveals a slight month-over-month increase in US container imports for June, but a year-over-year decline. Imports from China continue to fall, while Southeast Asia is gaining prominence. West Coast ports are regaining market share, with the Port of Los Angeles showing strong performance. The report emphasizes the importance for businesses to monitor policy changes, optimize supply chains, enhance digitalization, strengthen risk management, and embrace innovation to navigate the evolving trade landscape.

01/15/2026 Logistics
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US Port Imports Drop Sharply As Trade Tensions Strain Supply Chains

US Port Imports Drop Sharply As Trade Tensions Strain Supply Chains

A Descartes report reveals a significant drop in U.S. container imports in May. This decline is attributed to trade policies and geopolitical influences, particularly a sharp decrease in imports from China, heavily impacting West Coast ports. Businesses need to adapt by diversifying sourcing strategies and strengthening supply chain management to mitigate the challenges posed by trade volatility. The report highlights the increasing vulnerability of global supply chains to ongoing trade friction and the need for proactive risk mitigation strategies.

01/15/2026 Logistics
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US Imports Dip Slightly in August Amid Sustained High Demand

US Imports Dip Slightly in August Amid Sustained High Demand

Descartes' latest global shipping report reveals that US imports, while slightly down from July, remained high in August, with increased port congestion. The report analyzes import/export data from the top 10 US ports and key exporting countries, highlighting strong exports from China to the US. Businesses should diversify their supply chains, optimize transportation strategies, and leverage digital technologies to improve supply chain management. This will enable them to navigate market fluctuations and gain a competitive edge.

01/21/2026 Logistics
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US Imports Rise in November Surpassing 2023 Totals

US Imports Rise in November Surpassing 2023 Totals

Descartes' latest report reveals a month-over-month decrease in US imports for November, but year-over-year growth persists, surpassing last year's total. China remains the largest source of imports, although volumes have declined. The report highlights the potential impact of possible tariffs, labor negotiations, and geopolitical conflicts on the supply chain. These factors could introduce volatility and disruptions, requiring businesses to closely monitor and adapt their strategies to mitigate risks and ensure supply chain resilience.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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US Container Imports Surge Amid Tariffs Seasonal Demand

US Container Imports Surge Amid Tariffs Seasonal Demand

Descartes' report indicates that U.S. container imports in August reached the second-highest level in history, driven by tariff policies and seasonal demand. Although down month-over-month, imports remain above last year's levels and pre-pandemic figures. The report highlights the sensitivity to tariff policies and the trend of supply chain diversification, also noting changes in market share between East and West Coast ports. Looking ahead, the global economy, tariff policies, and technological innovation will continue to influence U.S. container imports.

01/07/2026 Logistics
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