Port of Los Angeles and Port of Long Beach report strong October volumes

While annual volume comparisons were down, total volume output was very strong, for October volumes, according to data recently issued by the Port of Los Angeles (POLA) and the Port of Long Beach (POLB), whom collectively account for roughly 40% of United States-bound import volumes.

POLA reported that it handled 902,644 TEU (Twenty-Foot Equivalent Units), an 8% decrease compared to October 2020, which represents the highest-volume October volume tally in POLA history.

October imports—at 467,287 TEU—fell 8% annually, and exports—at 98,251 TEU—saw a 32% annual decline. Empty containers—at 337,106 TEU—saw a 2% annual increase.

On a year-to-date basis through October POLA reported that total volume—at 9,079,562 TEU—is up 22% annually.

POLA said that going back to October 24, there’s been a 31% drop—from 94,981 to 65,080—in the number of import containers on its marine terminals. And it added that import containers dwelling nine days or more has declined 35%, from 37,410 to 24,361.

“Amid the array of challenges facing the supply chain, we continue to deliver more cargo than ever,” said Port of Los Angeles Executive Director Gene Seroka. “The National Retail Federation is forecasting a record holiday season as many outlets such as Walmart, Target and Home Depot report strong sales. In recent weeks, clearing our docks of imports and empties has been a top priority. As a result, we’ve seen a marked improvement of fluidity on our marine terminals, which allows more vessels to be processed.”

POLB data: The Port of Long Beach reported that total October volume—at 789,716 TEU—were down 2.1% compared to October 2020, its strongest October tally on record, while posting its second-busiest October output ever.

Port officials said that this was amid limited capacity at its marine terminals, which hindered import levels, coupled with an ongoing transition to extended operating hours.

October imports—at 385,000 TEU—fell 4.3% compared to October 2020, and exports—at 122,214—rose 6.6%. Empty containers—at 282,502 TEU—were down 2.4%

On a year-to-date basis through October, total POLA volume—at 7,884,565 TEU—is up 21% annually.

“Every sector of the supply chain has reached capacity and it is time for all of us to step up and get these goods delivered,” said Port of Long Beach Executive Director Mario Cordero in a statement. “In Long Beach, we are trying to add capacity by searching for vacant land to store containers, expanding the hours of operation at terminals, and implementing a fee that will incentivize ocean carriers to pull their containers out of the Port as soon as possible.” 

In tandem with POLA, POLB enacted a Congestion Dwell Fee on Nov. 1, charging ocean carriers for cargo containers that remain too long on the docks. The program is aimed at speeding the flow of cargo containers moving through the San Pedro Bay ports complex and reducing a record number of vessels waiting off the Southern California coast. As of Nov. 10, POLB said there has been a 20% decrease in loaded import containers that have dwelled at the Port of Long Beach past their respective time limits. The Port of Los Angeles has adopted an identical measure. And it added that the port continues to work with marine terminals and other supply chain partners to expand hours as part of a framework for 24-7 operations.