West Coast Cargo Charts a New Course

West Coast cargo is changing course. The Port of Los Angeles handled 1.04 million twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) in September, its busiest month ever. The port attributed the surge to resilient consumer demand, inventory replenishment, and challenges along the Panama and Suez Canal routes.

The shift extends beyond one terminal. Descartes reported the highest September U.S. container imports on record, with West Coast gateways gaining share. It also recorded increased transit delays at eight of the ten largest U.S. ports. Los Angeles, meanwhile, reported handling record volumes without the offshore vessel backlog seen during the pandemic. 

For shippers, the practical takeaway is to evaluate the complete route. An attractive ocean transit can still require careful coordination of drayage appointments, rail departures, warehouse availability, and final delivery. Compare total landed costs and arrival-to-delivery timelines before changing gateways. Confirm inland arrangements early, and keep alternative routing options visible as conditions evolve.

TLC is watching these shifts with the full shipment journey in view. Reach out to discuss how your port selection and inland transportation plans align with your delivery priorities.