The Port of Los Angeles saw its busiest July on record, moving an estimated 939,600 TEUs last month, which was also its busiest month in more than two years, according to statistics released by the seaport Aug. 13.
Last month’s volumes were up 37% from July 2023 at the port, which is handling 18% more cargo so far this year than it did in the first seven months of 2023 with 5,671,091 TEUs, data show.
Loaded imports in July rose 38% from July 2023 with 501,281 TEUs, while loaded exports went up 4% from last year with 114,889 TEUs, the port said. The gain in loaded exports, while modest, represents 14 months in a row of year-over-year export growth at the port.
The port also moved 323,431 empty containers last month, a 54% spike from July 2023.
“We’ve seen an influx of year-end holiday goods coming across our docks a bit earlier than usual to avoid any risk of delay later in the year,” Port Executive Director Gene Seroka said. “These goods – think toys, electronics and clothing – are arriving at the same time as more typical back-to-school, fall fashion and Halloween merchandise. An early peak season has helped to boost volumes here in Los Angeles.”
