Port of Los Angeles Sets All-Time Cargo Record in September

· Shipping · United States

The Port of Los Angeles handled a record 1,042,652 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) in September, the busiest month in its 118-year history, as strong consumer demand and shifting global supply chains drove an import surge. The record underscores resilient US import volumes heading into the fourth quarter, a period that typically sets up peak-season planning for carriers, beneficial cargo owners and drayage providers. The immediate effect is heightened pressure on port throughput, chassis availability and inland rail and truck capacity as volumes run above prior peaks.

Why it matters：Record US import volumes signal sustained transpacific demand and test port, rail and truck capacity, influencing rate and congestion trends into the new year.

Key points

  • The port handled 1,042,652 TEUs in September, a 118-year record.
  • The surge was driven by strong consumer demand and shifting supply chains.
  • It was the busiest month in the port's history.

Sources (original reporting)

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