Topic
retailers
Logistics 2M+ Import Containers to Set New Record in July as Retailers Front-Load Ahead of Tariff Hikes
The National Retail Federation (NRF) forecasts U.S. container imports will hit a new all-time record of 2.47 million TEU in July 2026, surpassing the previous record of 2.4 million TEU set in May 2022. The surge is driven by retailers front-loading inventory ahead of potential tariff increases in August and ongoing trade uncertainties. May volumes already reached 2.24 million TEU, up 14.9% year-over-year.
Logistics Ag Retailers Warn Union Pacific-Norfolk Southern Merger Threatens Rates, Service
The Agricultural Retailers Association (ARA) has raised serious concerns about the proposed Union Pacific-Norfolk Southern rail merger, warning it will concentrate pricing power and hurt agricultural shippers. ARA president Daren Coppock noted rail rates have risen 40% over 20 years, faster than truck rates, and past mergers have reduced competition.