The Port of Los Angeles moved more cargo in 2018 than any time in its 111-year history, racking up 9,458,749 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs), 1.2% more than 2017’s record-breaking year. It is the third consecutive year of record volumes for this gateway for containerized trade and the most cargo moved annually by a Western Hemisphere port.
“Los Angeles is open for business and engaged with the world—and now, we have another record year at the Port of Los Angeles to show for it,” said Mayor Eric Garcetti. “Our port helps make LA a global hub for commerce, and it continues to drive our economy forward by creating jobs and expanding opportunity across the city.”
Gene Seroka, Port of Los Angeles executive director, said, “2018 was marked by a robust economy coupled with tariff-induced surges of cargo headed to US retail and manufacturing sectors. These extraordinary volumes highlight the need for continued stakeholder collaboration on methods to maximize supply chain efficiency. Through a number of initiatives, we are focused on both physical and digital infrastructure enhancements that continue to ensure the reliable, safe and efficient conveyance of cargo through our gateway.”
In December, the port processed 903,258 TEUs, the busiest December in its 111-year history and a 15.9% jump from the previous year. It was the sixth consecutive month of volumes exceeding 800,000 TEUs.
“The Port of Los Angeles continues to be a national leader in cargo volume and innovation,” said John McLaurin, president of the Pacific Merchant Shipping Association (PMSA). “These record volumes are a reflection of the dedication and hard work of the port and all of the supply chain partners.”
December imports increased 21.6% to 468,906 TEUs. Exports decreased 3.2% to 147,965 TEUs. Along with an 18.9% rise in empty containers, overall December TEUs totaled 903,258, or 15.9% more than the previous year.
The Port of Los Angeles facilitated $284 billion in trade during 2017. San Pedro Bay port complex operations and commerce facilitate one in nine jobs in the five-county Southern California region.
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