ports

Port of Los Angeles Container Traffic Surges 17% in May

The Port of Los Angeles handled 840,165 TEUs in May, representing a 17% jump from the prior year. This growth occurred amid ongoing trade policy uncertainty. Import strength drove the gains, with loaded import containers reaching 449,370 units—a 26% increase year-over-year and roughly 3% above the five-year average. Port leadership attributed the rebound to resilient consumer spending and continued manufacturing restocking despite global economic headwinds. Export performance lagged significantly, declining 10% annually to 107,657 TEUs and falling 8% below historical benchmarks. Empty container movements climbed 18% to 283,138 units. Year-to-date volume reached more than 4 million TEUs, positioning the port about 1% ahead of both last year and five-year averages. Officials characterized the May results as a strong performance despite persistent international trade challenges.