Small U.S. importers supplying large retail-chains have accelerated their spring 2026 orders for China-made goods in a bid to beat possible 100 % tariffs from the U.S. starting November 1. Goods such as strollers and toys are being imported early and held in U.S. warehouses as importers brace for higher tariffs and logistics-cost headwinds. The approach, described by some as ‘front-loading,’ raises working-capital risk and could distort seasonal inventory cycles if demand weakens. Analysts say the move reflects how trade-policy uncertainty is altering supply-chain behaviour and retailer margins.