The Port of Los Angeles moved 688,999 TEUs in April. While that figure was 53% more than March volumes, it represents a decrease of 6.45% compared to last April.
Port Executive Director Gene Seroka commented on the occasion:
Given the unique circumstances of a trade war and pandemic, April volumes are better than expected
However, the Port expected that as we move deeper into the remainder of the second quarter, there will be significantly lower volumes, particularly on the import side.
Currently, there are at least 28 voided vessel sailings, while retailer orders are soft as consumer purchasing and confidence has dropped precipitously.
April loaded imports increased 2.6% to 370,111 TEUs compared to the previous year. Loaded exports fell 16.2% to 130,321 TEUs. Empty containers declined 14.4% to 188,567 TEUs. In total, April volumes totaled 688,999 TEUs.
The Port of Los Angeles remains open with all terminals operational during the COVID-19 pandemic and serves as the temporary homeport of the Naval hospital ship USNS Mercy.
The Port of Los Angeles facilitated $276 billion in trade during 2019.
