By Karen Robes Meeks
Like Los Angeles, neighboring Port of Long Beach also saw lower cargo volumes in February, a result of an earlier Lunar New Year and last year’s record numbers.
The port handled 596,616 TEUs last month, 9.8 percent less than in February 2018. Imports fell 11.5 percent to 302,865 TEUs, and exports dropped 19.6 percent to 105,287 TEUs. Empty containers were 0.1 percent lower at 188,465 TEUs.
“Lunar New Year was earlier this year, shrinking shipments for most of February,” said Long Beach Harbor Commission President Tracy Egoscue. “We're preparing for busier months ahead and will work with all of our supply chain partners this year to deliver efficient, fast service for our customers as they adjust to market changes.”
Still, last month’s numbers represented the port’s second-busiest February in history.
“Overall, our volumes have increased and cargo flow has become more consistent as retailers constantly replenish inventory in the e-commerce economy,” said Port of Long Beach Executive Director Mario Cordero. “Last year set high standards. We had our busiest months and year ever, but we are still expecting modest growth in 2019.”