Inbound container volumes are climbing again, with ocean ports across the U.S. reporting the beginning of tariff-driven surges that are rivaling post-COVID levels. This uptick appears to be tied to importers pulling forward inventory in response to the temporary pause on new tariffs for Chinese goods that was implemented in May.
The capacity strain hasn't fully shown itself just yet, but ocean ports are already reporting unusual offshore anchoring and a high volume of vessel arrivals expected through August. These tariff-driven surges suggest potential for congestion and ripples across all supply chain areas, including drayage, rail, domestic transportation, and around inland ports—and the effects may grow as peak season approaches.
This isn’t peak season yet. It’s what you might call a pre-peak surge—one driven more by strategic inventory positioning than seasonal demand. The question now is whether this momentum continues or fades. Early data points to a temporary wave rather than a sustained crunch, but if economic activity picks up or peak season stacks on top of this surge, capacity could tighten quickly.
It’s a good reminder that flexibility still matters. Whether it's short-term warehousing space, intermodal support, or international forwarding via ocean or air, supply chain partners with the ability to scale up and pivot quickly are going to be key in the weeks ahead. That includes thinking regionally—especially with drayage assets and transloading facilities near Southeastern and Gulf ports.
Averitt is well-positioned to help shippers stay ahead of potential downstream delays. With more than 30 Distribution & Fulfillment Centers across the South and Southeast, proximity to major sea and inland ports, and an integrated suite of services that spans international forwarding, warehousing, transloading, and transportation, Averitt offers the scalability and responsiveness today’s environment demands. Whether you're facing short-term surges or planning for longer-term shifts, our network and team are built to move quickly and keep your supply chain moving.
There’s no silver bullet for volatility, but being prepared, having options, and staying connected to real-time developments will go a long way. Time will tell if this surge is a standalone event or the start of a longer run—but either way, now is the time to make sure your inbound logistics strategy is as agile as your business needs it to be.
About The Author
Kent Williams is is Executive Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Averitt Express. He began his Averitt career in 1987 as part of the Cookeville sales team and has since held several leadership roles, including Service Center Director in Birmingham and Orlando, and Regional Vice President for Florida operations. Originally from Orlando, Kent earned a Bachelor of Science in Transportation and Logistics from Auburn University.
