Brooklyn prosecutors say the haul could be the state's largest ever.
A Jordanian national is under arrest. Investigators also seized more than 100 cases of counterfeit Marlboros made in China.
The bust is part of an ongoing investigation into gangs dealing in black market cigarettes.
The arrest comes as some authorities voice concern about whether the state's planned $1.25 hike in tobacco taxes will further fuel demand for contraband smokes.