Import volumes at the Port of Long Beach increased 10% year-over-year in August, the third highest monthly import total in the Port of Long Beach history and the second busiest month ever. The high imports contributed to an 8% overall increase in cargo volumes for the month and a strong year with cargo volumes up 6.6% year-to-date.

“The increase in imports is driven by a combination of factors, including the increase in retail sales, the peak shipping season for retail consumer goods and the fact that Long Beach is well positioned to handle the larger ships that are arriving here as part of the new ocean carrier alliance structure,” Lee Peterson of the Port of Long Beach, tells GlobeSt.com. “We are seeing strong imports due to the rise in consumer demand in the U.S. Furniture, clothing, electronics and toys are arriving on a daily basis, and fulfilling that consumer demand.”

Exports, however, didn't fair as well. Outbound cargo plummeted 26.3%, which the port attributed to a shift in vessel alliances. However, Peterson says that the strength of imports are important. “Imports include automotive parts, paper rolls, semi-finished steel and other materials that arrive in the U.S. are and made into something else. So, imports help to bolster the economy as well,” he explains. “We're always looking for an increase in exports, and eventually, we hope to see that develop as well.”

The Port of Long Beach has been on a winning streak since the start of the year, with all but one month showing strong increases in cargo volumes and several months hitting record-breaking numbers. As a result, the port is on track to have record import volumes for the year, even as exports struggle. “We expect that heavy demand for imported goods and materials will continue into next year, and we hope to eventually see a corresponding rise in exports, as foreign markets open to more U.S. grown and U.S. made goods,” says Peterson.

With import volumes reaching new levels, the industrial market—which is also breaking records—will continue to see tremendous demand for warehousing space. “Industrial real estate and all real estate in the Southern California area is in good shape,” says Peterson. “There is always a keen interest in industrial real estate that is located close to the ports or to freight corridors that include major freeways and rail routes.”

Instant Insights /

Import Volumes Rise to Record Highs

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