The Port of Long Beach is a leading global port, but this year, some political challenges and trade conflicts with China, impacted the port's cargo volumes. At the State of the Port conference last week, however, port leadership had a positive outlook on activity in 2020 and outlined how it plans to remain ahead of competition both at home and internationally. The key, according to Mario Cordero, executive director at the Port of Long Beach, is to focus on efficiency and advancement.

"The Port of Long Beach's productivity is extremely high," Cordero said in his speech at the event. "Our crane operators able to lift two 40-foot containers at once. The port is able to use APIs, a new technology that is making the truck appointment system state-of-the-art. The smart system ties the terminals data directly to the trucking company's computer. This allows for the automatic creation of truck appointments at LBTC."

The port is looking to boost efficiency everywhere to create better opportunities with clients. "Turn times for trucks have improved throughout the port complex. Appointments are saving time, and the port's geo-stamp system allows cargo owners and trucking companies to monitor and analyze turn-time data on an ongoing basis," says Cordero.

This system has had a significant impact on efficiency at the port. "With these improvements, containers move off of the dock sooner," says Cordero. "Since April, only 3% of the import boxes are on the docks are in more than five days. For us and all of our container terminals, every minute and every cost effective measure can make the difference as we face competition from other North American ports. Our terminals are clearly rising to today's standards by meeting the Amazon state-of-mind: anywhere, anytime."

In addition to new technology, the port is also focused on sustainability and security. "Service and safety are top priorities, but so is security. We have the most advanced security operations to enhance our business continuity and ensure the safest and most dependable movement of cargo," said Cordero.

In terms of sustainability, the port is regularly striving to reduce emissions, and will continue to do so into next year. "Environmental achievement is another top priority at the Port of Long Beach," says Cordero. "Our green flag program boasts 90% participation by ocean carriers. Our green ship program is bringing newer, cleaner ships here thanks to the participation of ocean carriers like MSC, the world's second largest ocean carrier. Less than two weeks ago, Matson, a vessel combination container and roll-on/off vessel made its maiden call to Pier C. It has engines than reduce particle air emissions by 40% and smog-forming nitrogen oxides by 20%."

Instant Insights /

How the Port of Long Beach Is Continuing to Grow

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