POLA, POLB volumes are mixed in September

September volumes at the Port of Los Angeles (POLA) and the Port of Long Beach (POLB) were mixed, according to data recently issued by each port.

POLA reported that total volume for the month, at 801,264 TEU (twenty-foot equivalents) saw a 4.9% annual gain, marking the best September volume output for in its 111 years of operation.

POLA imports rose 6.6% annually to 414,281 TEU, and exports were up 14.5% to 147,000 TEU. Empty containers, at 239,983 TEU, were off 2.7%. On a year-to-date basis through September, POLA volumes are off 1.75% to 6.8 million TEU.

“Volumes remain strong with shippers importing holiday season inventories and manufacturers bringing supplies and materials in advance of additional cost impacts from tariffs,” said Port of Los Angeles Executive Director Gene Seroka in a statement. “Our robust numbers are a reflection of the confidence cargo owners have in our efficiency, regional warehousing options, and speed-to-market capabilities. As we enter the final quarter of 2018, we continue to partner with stakeholders on an array of projects to enhance our infrastructure and operations.”

POLB handled 701,204 TEU in September, which was essentially flat on an annual basis, with a 0.1% decline.

Imports dropped 2.5% to 357,301 TEU, and exports slipped 3% to 121,561 TEU for the same period. Empties rose 5.9% to 222,343 TEU.

While September was not a stellar month overall, POLB fiscal year 2018 performance was the best ever on record for the port, rising 10.7% to 8,000,929 TEU.

“We are poised to break our calendar year record at the end of December,” said Port of Long Beach Executive Director Mario Cordero in a statement. “Despite the tariffs imposed by Washington and Beijing, international trade is showing resilience, and at our Port we are providing a conduit for commerce that’s efficient for our customers and getting their cargo to destinations faster, saving them money.”