Port of Long Beach Breaks Container Volume Record

Port of Long Beach Breaks Container Volume Record

The Port of Long Beach in Southern California set a new monthly record for container volume in July as retailers sought to build up inventory ahead of the peak shipping season. Total volume reached 882,376 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs), a significant increase of 52.6% compared to the same month last year.

Imports surged by 60.5% to 435,081 TEUs, while exports grew by 16.3% to 104,834 TEUs. Empty containers also saw a substantial increase of 57.8% to 342,462 TEUs.

Factors such as potential labor disputes on the East Coast, rerouting of vessels in the Middle East, and anticipated tariff increases contributed to the record-breaking volume in July, making it the third-busiest month in the port's 113-year history. Port officials attributed the strong performance to partnerships with labor and industry.

Through the first seven months of 2024, the Port of Long Beach handled a total of 5,174,002 TEUs, representing a 20% increase compared to the same period last year.

Port of Long Beach CEO Mario Cordero stated that the port is well-positioned for the peak shipping season, with ample capacity and efficient cargo movement. He expressed confidence in the port's ability to handle trans-Pacific trade effectively.