The Port of Los Angeles experienced its busiest January on record last month when the nation’s busiest seaport handled 865,595 TEUs, according to new data released by the port Thursday.
The amount was 3.6% more than January 2021, and came despite some year-over-year declines, including 427,208 TEUs in imports, which was a 2.4% dip from January 2021. The port also handled 100,185 TEUs in loaded exports, a 16% drop from the same time last year.
This was a continuation of a downward trend for exports in Los Angeles, where outbound cargo decreased in 35 of the last 39 months, according to port data.
Meanwhile, Asia’s ongoing demand for empty containers buoyed last month’s numbers, with empties accounting for the 21.4% increase from January 2021 with 338,202 TEUs. The port attributes the overall cargo uptick to supply chain partners’ efforts to push cargo out at a faster rate.
“Many of the key data points that track the number of containers moving off our docks – and how quickly they depart – have improved significantly in recent weeks,” said Port Executive Director Gene Seroka. “Our record-breaking January reflects the great efforts of our longshore workers, truckers and terminal operators as we continue to focus on additional operational efficiencies in the months ahead.”
