US container imports robust in February; volume forecast dicier

News Snapshot:

February’s U.S. container import volumes decreased 6% from January — a better-than-expected performance as the sector enters its slow season. But other signs point to potential softness in domestic freight in March and April. The 2.14 million twenty-foot equivalent units imported in February represent a 23.3% year-over-year increase, according to the latest monthly report from supply chain intelligence firm Descartes. That growth is real, but it isn’t quite as dramatic as it seems. Last year, the Chinese Lunar New Year began Jan. 22. Holiday festivities include eight days off from work, which causes a temporary shutdown in the country’s manufacturing...