Port of LA Announces Busiest Month of May Ever

The Port of Los Angeles announced Wednesday that last month was the busiest May it has ever had. 

Overall cargo volumes at the Port of Los Angeles increased nearly 11 percent in May compared to the same period last year. Total volumes registered at 770,000 TEU – more than any other May in the port's 109-year history – and container growth registered at nine percent for the first five months of 2016 compared to last year.

“The strong growth both on the import and export side is encouraging as we continue to explore ways to improve supply chain efficiencies,” said Executive Director Gene Seroka. “The unwavering efforts of our supply chain partners, including organized labor, has had a significant impact on our success.”

May loaded imports increased 15 percent to 400,000 TEU and loaded exports rose six percent to 160,000 TEU. Including a seven percent rise in empty containers, overall May container volumes were 770,00 TEU.

Through May, total 2016 cargo volumes year to date were 3,500,000 TEUs, up nine percent compared to the same period last year. 

Last year, LA handled over eight million TEU, making it the busiest container port in the United States (ahead of neighboring Long Beach). The port has grown markedly over the past twenty years: in 1996, it handled roughly a third of its current annual throughput.

Separately, the Port of New Orleans announced earlier this month that more containers moved through the Napoleon Avenue Container Terminal at the Port of New Orleans in March and April than in any two months in its history. “Continued growth in cargo figures is attributable to our efficient terminal operators, valued customers and the hard work of the entire Port community,” said Gary LaGrange, Port President and CEO. “All of that hard work is also paying off with international recognition from trusted transportation publications citing the Port’s productivity.”