Strong consumer demand drives increase in trade for seventh consecutive month

Rising consumer confidence lifted trade moving through the Port of Long Beach in March, marking the seventh consecutive month of year-over-year cargo growth.

Dockworkers and terminal operators moved 654,082 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) last month, an 8.3% increase from March 2023. Imports grew 8.4% to 302,521 TEUs and exports were down 21.3% to 105,099 TEUs. Empty containers moving through the Port jumped 28.9% to 246,464 TEUs.

“Consumer demand remains strong and continues to drive cargo through this vital gateway for trans-Pacific trade,” said Port of Long Beach CEO Mario Cordero. “We will continue to build the infrastructure that will allow us to grow our trade strategically and sustainably.”

“Steady cargo flows lead to steady jobs for our dedicated workforce,” said Long Beach Harbor Commission President Bobby Olvera Jr. “We will continue our role as the Port of Choice by moving cargo quickly, reliably and sustainably while providing outstanding customer service.”

The Port has moved 2,002,820 TEUs during the first quarter of 2024, up 16.4% from the same period in 2023.