April Cargo Volumes Up at Port of Long Beach

Long Beach Container Terminal
Long Beach Container Terminal
An aerial view of the Long Beach Container Terminal. Photo via POLB.

The Port of Long Beach last month beat its 2021 record for April, handling 10% more cargo year over year with 820,718 TEUs, according to data newly released by the port.

Imports for April were up 9.2% at 400,803 TEUs, while exports fell 1.8% to 121,876 TEUs from the same time a year ago. Meanwhile, empty containers rose 16.9% to 298,039 TEUs last month compared to April 2021.

“We are working closely with our industry stakeholders to quickly move the cargo off our docks and make room for the next wave of containers,” Long Beach Harbor Commission President Steven Neal said.

So far this year, Long Beach has handled more than 3.28 million TEUs, 5.1% more than the same time last year, according to POLB data.

“Cargo continues to move at a record-setting pace and may not slow down anytime soon,” port Executive Director Mario Cordero said. “We are preparing for a likely summertime surge as China recovers from an extended shutdown due to COVID-19.”

By Karen Robes Meeks