The Port of Long Beach experienced its busiest June on record, fueled by strong consumer spending, potential tariff hikes and ongoing labour contract negotiations at seaports along the East and Gulf coasts.
In June, dockworkers and terminal operators handled 842,446 TEUs, marking a 41.1% increase from the same month last year and surpassing the previous June 2022 record by 7,034 TEUs.
“We are recapturing market share and consumer spending is driving cargo to our docks as we head into the peak shipping season. I see modest growth for the second half of 2024 as we strengthen our competitiveness and continue to invest in our rail infrastructure projects that will maximize cargo velocity efficiently and sustainably for decades to come,” explained Mario Cordero, CEO at Port of Long Beach.
Imports surged 53% to 419,698 TEUs, exports increased 4% to 98,300 TEUs, and empty containers passing through the port rose 42.1% to 324,448 TEUs.
During the first half of 2024, the port has moved 4,291,626 TEUs, a 15% increase from the same period last year.
“Our waterfront workforce and terminal operators are delivering top-notch customer service by promptly processing a hefty increase in containers during the very busy summer months. We are focusing on our efforts to keep cargo flowing smoothly and secure our position as the premier gateway for trans-Pacific trade,” stated Bobby Olvera Jr, president of the Long Beach Harbor Commission.