Source: Supply Chain Dive 
Date: 15th July 2025

Shippers rush to frontload cargo as new tariffs loom, driving record volumes in July but raising concerns for the months ahead.

The Port of Los Angeles is experiencing a sharp rise in container volume as importers expedite shipments ahead of new tariffs set to take effect on August 1. Port officials project July volumes to reach 950,000 TEUs, boosted by additional vessel calls and increased frontloading activity.

This rush follows a brief import slowdown in May, triggered by uncertainty over the tariff timeline. The revised implementation date has caused a sudden spike in inbound cargo, as businesses aim to avoid costly duties on goods from affected countries.

The tariff plan includes rate hikes ranging from 20% to 50% on imports from various U.S. trading partners. While deals are in progress or confirmed with a few nations, most countries are bracing for the full impact. As a result, shippers are capitalising on the short window before August by accelerating deliveries.

June volumes at the Port of LA reached a record 892,000+ TEUs, supported by five extra loader vessels. The port ended its fiscal year with 10.5 million TEUs handled — a 14% increase — and has already moved nearly 5 million TEUs in the first half of 2025.

Despite the current momentum, port officials expect a drop in activity post-August.

With most retailers securing their holiday inventory early, volumes are forecasted to decline through November.

The National Retail Federation anticipates a double-digit percentage dip at U.S. ports in the coming months. As the tariff environment continues to evolve, stakeholders remain watchful of how demand, capacity, and trade negotiations will shape the remainder of 2025.