The Port of Los Angeles saw its cargo volumes last month tumble 21.5% from the same time a year ago, when the seaport posted its busiest September in history, according to new data released by the port Oct. 19.
The port processed 709,873 TEUs in September, with imports down 27% year over year to 343,462 TEUs. Meanwhile, loaded exports in September showed a 3% uptick year over year with 77,680 TEUs. The port moved 288,731 TEUs of empty containers in September, a 20% drop from the same time last year.
The port is attributing the numbers in part to a glut of products already being on shelves and in warehouses.
So far this year, Los Angeles has handled more than 7.8 million TEUs, about 4% down from its record-setting pace in 2021.
“Despite what will likely be a soft ending to 2022, we are on track to have the second-best year in our history,” Port Executive Director Gene Seroka said at a media briefing. “More importantly, the cargo backlog that began last year has been nearly eliminated due to the diligent, combined efforts of our supply chain partners.”
