In September 2025, US container import volumes fell to 2.31 million TEUs, marking an 8.4% decline from August and the same percentage drop compared to September 2024. Imports from China saw a sharper contraction, down 12.3% month-over-month and 22.9% year-over-year. While the decrease aligns with seasonal trends observed in most of the past decade, this year’s steeper drop may reflect heightened sensitivity to tariff deadlines and shifting trade policies. Despite the September slowdown, year-to-date import volumes remain relatively strong—tracking 1.9% ahead of the same period in 2024. Port transit delays showed minor improvements, and Descartes Systems Group’s October report highlights ongoing challenges from tariff volatility and geopolitical disruptions that continue to impact global supply chains.
