Shifting trade routes and cancelled voyages resulted in a decline in cargo at the Port of Long Beach in May.
Dockworkers and terminal operators handled 695,937 TEUs last month, an 8.2% decrease from May 2023.
“I am confident we will see additional cargo as we work with industry partners to rebuild our market share in this increasingly competitive environment,” commented Mario Cordero, CEO at Port of Long Beach.
Imports fell by 4.5% to 345,271 TEUs, while exports dropped by 21.1% to 100,885 TEUs. The number of empty containers moving through the Port also declined by 7% to 249,782 TEUs.
Mario Cordero further added, “Looking ahead, I anticipate a moderate increase in cargo as we move into summer and we recapture business by delivering the top-notch customer service that makes us the Port of Choice.”
Despite this, the Port has moved 3,449,181 TEUs in the first five months of 2024, which is still a 10% increase from the same period in 2023.
“Our longshore labour, facilities and industry partners are ready for cargo growth as we head into the shipping season for back-to-school and beyond, thanks to our ability to move goods reliably, quickly and sustainably. Over the long term, the San Pedro Bay ports complex will continue to be a strategic and sustainable gateway for trans-Pacific trade,” stated Bobby Olvera Jr., Harbor Commission President at the Port of Long Beach.