June 18, 2026
Port of Los Angeles May cargo volume climbs 17%
The Port of Los Angeles processed 840,165 Twenty-Foot Equivalent Units (TEUs) in May, 17% above last year as import volume increased amid continued uncertainty surrounding trade policy and global supply chains.
Through the first five months of 2026, the Port has handled 4,119,869 TEUs, 1.4% ahead of the pace set during the same period last year.
"We're seeing cargo move for a combination of reasons, including inventory replenishment, concerns about fuel costs, trade-policy uncertainty and preparation for upcoming retail seasons. Companies are operating with shorter planning horizons and taking advantage of opportunities when they emerge," Port of Los Angeles Executive Director Gene Seroka told reporters at a media briefing.
May 2026 loaded imports totaled 449,370 TEUs, a 26% increase compared to last year. The comparison was aided by softer import volume in May 2025, when many cargo owners temporarily paused shipments amid changing tariff policies.
Loaded exports came in at 107,657 TEUs, 10% lower than last year. Empty containers totaled 283,138 TEUs, 18% above May 2025.
Source: Port of Los Angeles