The Port of Long Beach has witnessed its busiest July on record and the third-busiest month in its 113-year existence.
In July, dockworkers and terminal operators handled 882,376 TEU, up 52.6 per cent from the same month last year and 12.4 per cent higher than the previous record established in July 2022.
Imports increased by 60.5 per cent to 435,081 TEU, while exports increased by 16.3 per cent to 104,834 TEU, and empty containers handled through the port increased by 57.8 per cent to 342,462 TEU.
Port of Long Beach CEO Mario Cordero, said: “We’re in a strong position heading into the peak shipping season as consumers purchase back-to-school supplies and shippers move goods ahead of potential tariff increases.
“We have plenty of capacity across our terminals and cargo continues to move efficiently and sustainably at this premier gateway for trans-Pacific trade.”
Long Beach Harbor Commission President, Bonnie Lowenthal, stated: “Our waterfront workforce continues to move trade through the Port at a record-setting pace. Our strong partnerships with labor and industry continue to help us meet the evolving needs of our customers.”
The port moved 5.17 million TEU during the first seven months of 2024, up 20 per cent from the same period last year.
The Port of Long Beach had its busiest June on record, due to strong consumer spending, prospective tariff rises, and continuing labour contract discussions at seaports along the East and Gulf coasts.