Friday, March 22, 2019

Los Angeles Boxes Drop

By Karen Robes Meeks

Although it was its third busiest February ever, the Port of Los Angeles handled 2.7 percent less cargo (705,306 TEUs) than over the same period last year.

Imports fell 9.1 percent to 348,316 TEUs, while exports dipped 9.5 percent to 142,554 TEUs when compared to February 2018 — a record month for Los Angeles cargo. Meanwhile, empty containers were up 16.3 percent to 214,436 TEUs.

The port is attributing the declining numbers to the timing of the Lunar New Year, which prompted shippers to move more cargo in January instead of February. Factories in Asia slow or close shop to celebrate the new year.

"After the busiest seven months in the history of our port, the anticipated ease in cargo volume provides an opportunity for us to regroup with our stakeholders,” said Port Executive Director Gene Seroka. “With an uneven trade flow, we will be closely evaluating next steps for enhancing supply chain efficiencies.”