Tariffs Slam LA Imports

Port of Los Angeles imports sank 19% in May, dragging the U.S.’s busiest trade hub into a freight funk driven by tariff chaos and seasonal softness. Executive Director Gene Seroka warned that the steep drop, compounded by up to 145% tariffs on Chinese goods, is already impacting retailers’ seasonal planning. With summer goods missing the mark and back-to-school shipments lagging, shelves may stay bare longer than usual. Seroka underscored that product costs out of China remain roughly 50% higher than earlier in the year, stifling volume recovery even under a temporary tariff reprieve.

Exports are also under siege. Only 120,000 containers left the port in May, marking six consecutive months of year-on-year export declines as foreign buyers retaliate with tariffs of their own—particularly on U.S. agriculture and manufacturing sectors. TLC is cutting through the noise, ensuring clients stay stocked despite volatile conditions. Contact us today to discuss how we’re adjusting your freight strategy in response to shifting tariff policies.

Click Here to read more!