US Wholesale Sector NAICS 42

Sep 24, 2025 - Global Port Tracker Forecasts Steep Drop in US Imports

• Following a summer surge in imports, US container ports are projected to see declining cargo volumes through year-end due to rising tariffs and trade policy uncertainty, according to the Global Port Tracker report by the National Retail Federation and Hackett Associates. July saw a near-record 2.36 million TEU as retailers accelerated shipments ahead of tariff hikes. However, forecasts show steady declines from September through January 2026, with December expected to be the slowest month since March 2023. Sectoral tariffs and reciprocal trade measures are expanding, impacting a broader range of goods and complicating long-term planning for retailers. The trend signals mounting pressure on US retail supply chains. For logistics providers, importers, and retailers, the volatility in trade policy and port activity underscores the need for agile inventory strategies and diversified sourcing. Rising costs and constrained planning windows may lead to higher consumer prices and margin compression across the retail ecosystem.
• A Zebra Technologies and Oxford Economics study reveals that automation and AI-enhanced workflows have led to productivity increases of up to 21% in transportation and logistics, 19% in manufacturing, and a 21% improvement in customer satisfaction in retail. The research highlights how improvements such as integrating automation, data, and frontline expertise boost efficiency, visibility, and financial performance. For top global firms, the improvements could translate into an average of $3 billion in higher revenue and an average of $120 million in added profit.

• The Logistics Manager’s Index (LMI) posted slight growth in August 2025, representing upward pressure from inventory and warehousing metrics. The August LMI score was 59.3, compared to 59.2 in July, 60.7 in June, and 59.4 in May. Any reading above 50 indicates that logistics is expanding. The fluid state of tariffs continues to impact wholesalers and distributors. Compiled by researchers at five universities, the report receives support from the Council of Supply Management Professionals. It measures eight components within the logistics sector, including inventory levels and costs, warehousing capacity, utilization and prices, and transportation capacity.
• US consumer mood indicators have weakened, signaling potential headwinds for spending. The Conference Board’s Consumer Confidence Index fell 1.3 points in August 2025, with the decline driven by younger consumers under 35, while confidence among those over 55 improved. Meanwhile, the University of Michigan’s Consumer Sentiment Index slipped to 55.4 in early September from 58.2 in August, down 21% year over year. Inflation expectations held steady, but persistent worries about prices and tariff impacts remain. Consumer sentiment and confidence are leading indicators of discretionary spending, which drives two-thirds of U.S. economic activity. A continued slump suggests households may curb purchases and delay big-ticket decisions, raising risks for retailers, service providers, and the broader economy.