Container volumes surged at major U.S. ports in April as importers raced to move goods ahead of new tariffs. However, port leaders warn of a slowdown starting in May.
April's Volume:
Port of Los Angeles: Processed 842,806 TEUs, up 9.4% YoY.
“A strong economy and high consumer confidence propelled that growth early on, while more recently it’s been the push by importers to bring cargo in ahead of today’s tariffs,” said Executive Director Gene Seroka.
April marked the 19th increase in the last 21 months.
Port of Long Beach: Hit a record with 867,493 TEUs, up 15.6% YoY.
“We are now anticipating a more than 10% drop-off in imports in May — and the effects will be felt beyond the docks,” said CEO Mario Cordero.
Port of Houston: Set an April record with 387,478 TEUs, up 19.5% YoY.
“Houston has long been a growth market,” said CEO Charlie Jenkins.
Year-to-date volume rose 4% to over 1.45 million units.
Georgia Ports (Savannah & Appalachian Regional Port): Saw a 16.9% increase to 515,500 TEUs.
“Our operations remain business as usual with some customers front-loading supply chains,” said GPA President Griff Lynch.
Northwest Seaport Alliance (Seattle/Tacoma): Volume rose 7.4% YoY to 277,828 TEUs. Noted 14 straight months of growth in international imports.
Port of New York & New Jersey: Volumes increased 6% YoY to 751,194 TEUs.
South Carolina Ports (Charleston): Ticked up 0.3% YoY to 215,804 TEUs.
“We excel at quickly working ships and moving goods,” said SC Ports CEO Barbara Melvin.
Port of Oakland: Dropped 1.7% YoY to 185,499 TEUs.
“We anticipate similar volume in May with a strong recovery in June,” said Maritime Director Bryan Brandes.
What Brokers Should Know:
April saw front-loaded volumes as companies rushed to beat tariffs.
May and June could bring declines due to policy-driven demand shifts.
Expect softer freight and potential capacity overhang near term.
Outlook:
While April volumes were strong, port executives across the country expect softer demand in May as tariff uncertainty pressures trade flows. Brokers and carriers should prepare for near-term shifts in freight movement.
Hello! I'm Jerome FreightCaviar! I’m into the politics of freight and the impact it will have worldwide. I'm always eager to learn more. Follow me on X @JeromeFreightC
The Port of Los Angeles saw a 30% drop in inbound shipments in early May following new Trump-era tariffs. Port leaders warn trade uncertainty is disrupting U.S. cargo flows.
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