The Port of Los Angeles announced in mid-October it’s transitioning into a 24/7 operation in an effort to ease cargo congestion. The announcement came after President Biden met with port Executive Director Gene Seroka about the congestion and cargo movement challenges.
Seroka said that operational details are being discussed and worked out with the supply chain stakeholders, and remarked that the announcement represents a “commitment from industry leaders responsible for moving goods on behalf of American consumers and businesses to open up the capacity needed to deliver.”
“It’s a call to action for others to follow,” he explained, adding that there’s a lot of work ahead.
“The Port of L.A. is called America’s Port because cargo we handle reaches every corner of the country,” he remarked. “In the days ahead, we are committed to continuing to be the convener to ensure the supply chain delivers for the American people.”
In a statement following the announcement, Pacific Merchant Shipping Association President John McLaurin said he and his members are encouraged by the Biden Administration’s move to relieve congestion in the supply chain.
“This federal leadership has the potential to expedite needed shipments of goods throughout the United States,” he said, adding that “we look forward to working with the Biden Administration to keep the supply chain moving.”
The adjoining Port of Long Beach previously announced that it was also moving toward 24/7 operations. In late September, it and Total Terminals International announced that they’re launching a 24-hour cargo pickup pilot program at the port’s Pier T.