Record-Breaking Quarter at the Port of Long Beach!

Port of Long Beach Hits Record-Breaking Quarter

The Port of Long Beach, a major gateway for trans-Pacific trade, has set a new record by moving 2.63 million TEU (twenty-foot equivalent units) in the third quarter of 2024. This milestone surpasses the port’s previous best quarter, the second quarter of 2022, by 78,628 TEU, highlighting its importance in global logistics.

September Sees Highest Container Volume Yet

September 2024 also saw the port handling 829,499 TEU, narrowly surpassing the previous record set in September 2023. The increase was driven by both holiday-related demand and shippers diverting cargo to the West Coast to avoid potential disruptions due to labor strikes on the East Coast.

Strike Concerns Drive Cargo to the West Coast

The surge in container volumes at the Port of Long Beach was partly influenced by labor strikes at East Coast ports. Dockworkers at these ports, represented by the International Longshoremen’s Association, went on strike from October 1 to October 3, which led many businesses to reroute shipments to the West Coast. While the strike was brief, unresolved issues like automation remain and could lead to more uncertainty in the future.

Outlook for Continued Growth in the Fourth Quarter

Port of Long Beach CEO Mario Cordero expressed optimism about continued growth, stating, “We have plenty of room across our terminals as the peak shipping season drives a record amount of cargo through this critical gateway for trans-Pacific trade.” Retailers are expected to stock their shelves for the upcoming winter holidays, driving even more container throughput in the coming months.

Import and Export Trends in September

For September 2024, imports increased by 2%, reaching 416,999 TEU, while exports fell by 12.8%, totaling 88,289 TEU. The port also handled 324,211 TEU in empty containers, a 1.5% increase from the same period last year, indicating strong demand for container capacity.

Cargo Protection

As cargo volumes rise and peak shipping season intensifies, the risk of moisture damage during transit also increases. Businesses can protect their goods from moisture-related issues by using Super Dry’s advanced desiccant solutions, ensuring that products reach their destination in pristine condition. Contact us today for a free consultation to learn how we can help safeguard your shipments.