The Port of Long Beach recorded its third-busiest May on record, handling 842,030 TEUs during the month, a 31.7% increase compared with May 2025 as cargo volumes continued to demonstrate resilience amid evolving global trade patterns. Import volumes led the growth, rising 40% year-on-year to 418,851 TEUs, while exports climbed 32.9% to 109,168 TEUs.
Empty container movements also posted a significant increase, growing 21.8% to 314,012 TEUs. The strong performance underscores the port’s continued role as a critical gateway for trans-Pacific trade. Port officials attributed the robust throughput to the efforts and dedication of members of the International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU), whose work has helped maintain efficient cargo operations and supply chain reliability.
For the first five months of 2026, the Port of Long Beach handled 4.05 million TEUs, representing a modest increase of 0.2% compared with the corresponding period last year. While growth over the five-month period was relatively subdued, the latest monthly figures highlight renewed momentum in cargo activity.
According to the port, current throughput levels are keeping it on track to match or potentially exceed its busiest year on record, reflecting sustained demand and the facility’s ability to accommodate rising container volumes. The latest results reinforce the Port of Long Beach’s position among the leading container ports in North America, with strong import demand and improving cargo flows continuing to support overall performance.