Port of Los Angeles breaks records as retailers rush to stock Christmas merchandise early

The Port of Los Angeles is experiencing record-breaking growth as North America’s largest port, handling an impressive 5.7 million TEUs in the first seven months of 2024. A notable spike in activity occurred in July, driven by retailers ordering Christmas merchandise earlier than usual to avoid potential delays later in the year. Toys, electronics, and apparel, which typically arrive closer to the holiday season, are now coming in alongside back-to-school and Halloween products.

Retailers are making these moves to mitigate supply chain disruptions that have plagued the industry in recent years. Gene Seroka, Executive Director of the Port of Los Angeles, explained that companies are taking proactive measures to ensure their shelves are stocked with festive goods long before the holiday rush begins. This early peak season has given a significant boost to the port’s volumes and continues to position it as the leading port in the U.S.

Empty container handling at the port also saw a remarkable rise, with 54% more empty containers processed in July compared to the same period last year. This reflects the increasing movement of goods as global trade grows, particularly for high-demand seasons like Christmas.

However, with the increased container throughput comes the challenge of protecting these goods during transit. This is where Super Dry steps in. Given the long ocean voyages and fluctuating weather conditions, protecting Christmas merchandise from moisture damage becomes a critical issue. Super Dry’s advanced desiccant solutions offer the perfect defense against the condensation and humidity that can compromise product quality during shipment. By ensuring the cargo arrives in pristine condition, Super Dry provides peace of mind to retailers during this high-stakes season, making it the go-to solution for protecting Christmas stock.