Under "tariff shockwave", American imports plunge 64% between March and April.

While building on 2023's recovery, U.S. container import bookings showed strong performance early this year, still up 30% year-over-year compared to 2024. However, volumes have dropped 20% from January's peak.

Container data analyst Vizion indicates this abrupt shift appears directly tied to anticipated tariff hikes. Shippers reacted to rumors by accelerating shipments to avoid potential cost increases. Yet as tariff uncertainties intensified, trade impacts became more pronounced.

From March 24-31 to April 1-8, multiple logistics sectors experienced cliff-like declines – termed the "tariff shockwave" by Vizion:

⬇ Global 20-foot container bookings plunged 49%

⬇ Total U.S. imports fell 64%

⬇ U.S. exports dropped 30%

⬇ Imports from China decreased 64%

⬇ Exports to China declined 36%

These steep drops coincided with new tariff measures announced in April under the Trump administration, triggering widespread booking freezes as shippers paused to reassess strategies.

Industry-specific analysis reveals deeper impacts. Comparing late March to early April:

• Apparel/accessories imports fell 59%

• Wool/fabrics/textiles dropped 57%

Such discretionary/seasonal categories typically react first to economic pressures and policy changes, serving as early indicators of broader trade trends.

Chinese manufacturing inputs suffered equally severe blows:

• Plastic products (-45.4%)

• Copper goods (-31.1%)

• Wood products (-24%)

These critical industrial materials now face intensified tariff pressures, exacerbated by the White House's April 10 move to impose staggering 145% tariffs on Chinese goods – combining previous 125% rates with additional 20% import taxes.

Vizion concludes the data clearly shows shippers first rushed to beat potential tariffs, then slammed on brakes as the situation evolved.

Looking ahead, the remainder of 2025 may bring sustained instability. With tariffs on other trade partners currently paused for 90 days, Vizion warns of ongoing turbulence from demand fluctuations, accelerated ordering cycles, and fundamental reevaluations of global sourcing strategies.