As imports increased ahead of anticipated tariffs, the Port of Long Beach , California, United States, was the busiest in the country during the first quarter of 2025, handling 2,535,575 TEUs (20-foot containers) in that period, representing a 26.6% increase compared to the same period in 2024.
“We are leading the way as the nation’s busiest port by ensuring the fastest and most efficient delivery of cargo from our docks to anywhere in the United States,” said Mario Cordero, CEO of the Port of Long Beach.
According to a statement, last March alone, port workers and terminal operators handled 817,457 TEUs, which represented 25% more than in the third month of 2024.
“Our highly skilled longshore workers have worked hard to help us become the busiest seaport in the United States during the first quarter of the year,” said Bonnie Lowenthal, president of the Long Beach Port Commission.
In the reference month, imports also showed positive performance, growing 25.8% to 380,562 TEUs ; while exports decreased 1% to 104,063 TEUs .
Empty containers moving through the port increased 35% to 332,832 TEUs . March also marked the tenth consecutive monthly increase in cargo compared to the previous year.
“We are working hard to attract business, operate sustainably, and develop projects that ensure our long-term growth,” Lowenthal emphasized.
The port also experienced its busiest first half of any fiscal year on record, with 5,267,926 TEUs moved since October 1, making it the busiest U.S. port over the past six months.
Meanwhile, in 2024, the Port of Long Beach was the second busiest seaport in the country, with 9.6 million TEUs processed.
As the United States’ primary gateway for trans-Pacific trade, the port handles more than $300 billion in annual trade and supports 2.6 million American jobs , including 575,000 in Southern California.
Over the next 10 years , the port plans $3.2 billion in capital improvements to increase capacity, competitiveness, and sustainability.
Regarding sustainability, in 2025 the port celebrates the 20th anniversary of its Green Ports Policy, which has led to programs to improve air and water quality, protect marine wildlife, and implement sustainable practices.
“Our investments in modern, state-of-the-art facilities allow us to move record amounts of cargo with maximum efficiency while continuing to provide the highest standard of customer service,” said Mario Cordero.
Comment and follow us on X:@GrupoT21
