The Port of Los Angeles sustained its strong performance into February, continuing from a record-setting start to the year. The port processed 801,398 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs), reflecting a 2.5% increase from the same time in 2024 and marking the second-busiest February in the port’s history. This remarkable achievement is part of a broader trend, with year-over-year cargo growth observed in 17 of the past 19 months.
In February, loaded imports totaled 413,236 TEUs, representing a modest 1% increase compared to the previous year. Conversely, loaded exports experienced a notable decline of 18%, reaching 109,156 TEUs. The handling of empty containers increased by 16%, totaling 279,006 TEUs.
For the first two months of 2025, overall volume reached 1,725,643 TEUs, signifying a 5.4% increase compared to the same period in 2024. Gene Seroka, Executive Director of the Port of Los Angeles, mentioned in a media release that while current trends are positive, potential challenges may arise in the latter half of the year. Many retailers and manufacturers have started importing goods earlier than usual in anticipation of possible tariffs. This approach, along with existing substantial inventory and tariff uncertainties, may result in a volume decrease of up to 10% in the second half of 2025. “Here in Los Angeles, we will continue to seek new opportunities to enhance business through our gateway,” stated Seroka.
