The Importance of Carrier Compliance in Trucking

As businesses take action to mitigate potential supply chain disruptions, global shipping is bracing for significant shifts. According to a recent forecast by the National Retail Federation (NRF), container imports through U.S. ports are expected to surge into the new year. This increase reflects shippers’ efforts to navigate two looming challenges: a potential strike by East and Gulf Coast longshore workers and proposed tariffs by the incoming administration.

A Surge in Imports to Avoid Disruption

In October 2024, containerized import volumes totaled 2.25 million twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) across ports monitored by the Global Port Tracker. While this figure represented a slight 1.2% dip from September, it marked a 9.3% year-over-year increase. Looking ahead, projections for November and December suggest continued growth, with import volumes anticipated to rise by over 14% year-over-year for each month.

The surge is largely driven by importers frontloading cargo to avoid potential supply chain disruptions. Retailers, in particular, are prioritizing early shipments to shield themselves and their customers from the economic impact of potential strikes and broad-based tariffs.

Retailers and Policy Advocates Urge Action

The NRF, representing major retailers like Walmart, Target, and Levi Strauss, has urged both industry and political leaders to address these potential challenges. The organization has called for renewed contract negotiations between port employers and the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA), emphasizing the critical need to avoid a work stoppage that could further strain supply chains.

Additionally, the NRF has advised the incoming administration to adopt a strategic approach to tariffs, warning that sweeping policies could increase costs for everyday goods.

Record-Setting Import Activity and the Path Forward

The ripple effects of this frontloading are evident in intermodal container activity, with record-setting volumes reported by the Association of American Railroads in November. This trend underscores the interconnected nature of global shipping, where increased port activity leads to heightened demand across rail, trucking, and warehousing networks.

Looking ahead, monthly import volumes for early 2025 are projected to remain robust. January imports are expected to rise 12% year-over-year, while February may see a temporary dip due to Lunar New Year factory shutdowns in Asia. By March and April, imports are anticipated to rebound, growing by 12.7% and 6.6%, respectively.

What This Means for Global Shipping

The surge in container imports highlights the importance of adaptability in today’s global shipping landscape. ForwardNow is committed to helping businesses navigate these challenges with reliable, multimodal logistics solutions. From managing peak-season surges to mitigating supply chain risks, our expertise ensures that your goods move efficiently, even amid uncertainty.

Source: National Retail Federation and FreightWaves, Container Imports to Surge Ahead of Strike, Tariffs (December 10, 2024).