Truckload isn’t the only market getting tighter. Ocean container volumes are climbing at the same time, and that’s putting real pressure on drayage capacity at ports across the country.
Imports are at year-to-date highs
US container imports hit a YTD high in June. Descartes reports inbound volume was up 8.2% year-over-year, with China driving most of that growth. Imports from China alone are up 27% Y/Y.
Tariff timing Is pulling volume forward
Part of the surge appears to be front-loading ahead of new Section 301 tariffs tied to labor practice requirements. Some quick context:
- The rules are aimed at reducing forced labor in supply chains.
- 60 countries are currently under review for compliance, including major trading partners like Canada, Mexico, the EU, and China.
- The proposed tariffs carry significant exclusions. Categories such as specific raw materials, pharmaceuticals, energy, and goods already covered under Section 232 are expected to be exempt.
- A final decision is expected in late July 2026.
Importers who want to get ahead of any changes are moving volume now, which is adding to the current demand spike.
Rates are following capacity
More containers moving through the same number of chassis, drivers, and storage yards naturally means capacity is getting squeezed at the port level. New drayage contracts are also starting to reflect the recent spike in fuel costs, on top of tighter equipment availability.
What this means for shippers
Whether it’s a temporary tariff-driven pull-forward or the start of a longer trend, the result is the same right now: less available capacity and upward pressure on rates at major ports. Shippers without a reliable drayage partner, or one who understands the nuances of drayage, are the ones most exposed when volumes spike like this.
Need a drayage plan that can flex with the market? Connect with your dedicated FWF sales rep for a quote today.
