Can anyone provide the contact info of the traffic managers or import
managers of importing firms in the U.S. or more specifically the NYC
area?
Thanks R

Don't think I can give you names specific companies because that would
be steering but here is some info and links.

An international freight forwarder is an agent for the exporter in
moving cargo to an overseas destination. These agents are familiar
with the import rules and regulations of foreign countries, the export
regulations of the U.S. government, the methods of shipping, and the
documents related to foreign trade. Export freight forwarders are
licensed by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) to
handle air freight and the Federal Maritime Commission to handle ocean
freight.

Freight forwarders assist exporters in preparing price quotations by
advising on freight costs, port charges, consular fees, costs of
special documentation, insurance costs, and their handling fees. They
recommend the packing methods that will protect the merchandise during
transit or can arrange to have the merchandise packed at the port or
containerized. If the exporter prefers, freight forwarders can reserve
the necessay space on a vessel, aircraft, train, or truck. The cost
for their services is a legitimate export cost that should be included
in the price charged to the customer

See this page for a list of licensed freight forwarders.
http://www2.fmc.gov/oti/lff_listing.asp

See this page to learn gov rules on shipping.
http://www.export.gov/exportbasics/exp_001602.asp

Thanks Mike, i am a freight forwarder who is looking for new business.
That is why I desire the individual contacts at importing firms.

Go to the library reference section and request the directory of US importers. 

The data is maintained by The Journal of Commerce. In some cases it is
spot on, in others it appears as if a child supplied the information.

The TEU volume is generally off-significantly.