Cargo Volumes up at Port of Los Angeles

The Port of Los Angeles saw a 22 percent jump in cargo year over year when the nation’s busiest seaport moved 889,746 TEUs last month, according to new numbers released Monday. Imports for November were up 25 percent to 464,820 TEUs, while exports dipped 5.5 percent to 130,917 TEUs. Empty containers – many returning to Asia – rose 34.2 percent to 294,010 TEUs last month when compared to the same time last year.

More spending by consumers, holiday shipments and warehouse restocking have been driving the increased numbers in recent months, according to the port.

“Since August, monthly cargo volume has averaged almost 930,000 TEUs,” said Port Executive Director Gene Seroka. “It’s unusual to see this kind of import activity this late in the year. But 2020 has been anything but normal.”

With consumers continuing to stay at home and buy goods rather than services, the port expects robust activity at the port for at least several months, Seroka said.

“To help stakeholders manage the cargo influx, the port has introduced new data tools for asset planning, provided additional land for chassis and containers, and is working with cargo owners large and small to prioritize their shipments.”

By Sarah Spangler