Port of Los Angeles Reports Record Volume
The Port of Los Angeles saw record volumes in Q3 2024, handling an all-time high of 2.85 million TEUs, up 27% year-over-year, driven by front-loaded holiday season shipments. September alone hit 954,706 TEUs, with imports surging 26% as retailers moved to offset potential disruptions from Asian port congestion, global shipping risks, and labor strikes. This marks a strong rebound for the West Coast gateway, aided by a stable labor environment thanks to a five-year union contract. However, export volumes dipped by 5%, while empty containers surged by 45%, reflecting pandemic-level imbalances.
Gene Seroka, the port’s Executive Director, highlighted strong consumer spending, with retail sales up 3.5% despite deflationary pressures on goods. Looking ahead, the port plans to increase throughput by leveraging underutilized truck capacity, but rail congestion remains a key bottleneck, with container dwell times still at eight days. Despite these challenges, the port expects high October volumes and a robust outlook into early 2025, bolstered by strong economic indicators and the early Lunar New Year.
As the Port of LA breaks records, TLC is proactively ensuring clients’ supply chains remain flexible, efficient, and equipped for future disruptions. Contact us today to secure your freight capacity during this peak season.
Click Here to read on.
