The Port of Los Angeles, a critical hub for global trade, has processed 848,431 Twenty-Foot Equivalent Units (TEUs) in October, a solid performance that keeps this vital Western Hemisphere port within striking distance of a historic 10 million container unit mark for 2025. This achievement, if realized, would mark the third time in the Port of Los Angeles’ history it has handled this volume and would be a first for any port in the Western Hemisphere, underscoring its impressive cargo performance.
Port of Los Angeles: October Volume Continues Strong Trajectory
In October 2025, the Port of Los Angeles processed 848,431 TEUs, demonstrating resilience amidst ongoing trade volatility. Year-to-date figures through October reveal that the Port of Los Angeles has handled a total of 8,655,489 TEUs, representing a 2% increase compared to the same period in the previous year. This sustained container volume places the Port of Los Angeles on a strong trajectory to potentially surpass the 10 million TEU threshold by the end of 2025, reinforcing its position as a leader in the global trade arena.
Historic Milestone for the Port of Los Angeles Within Reach
Executive Director Gene Seroka expressed optimism about reaching the 10 million container unit mark, stating, “With six weeks to go, we are within reach of the 10 million container unit-mark for the year”. Reaching this benchmark would not only be the third time in the Port of Los Angeles’ history that it has achieved such a volume but would also cement its status as the only Western Hemisphere port to accomplish this feat even once. Seroka attributed this potential success to the dedication of the waterfront workforce and terminal operators who ensure the Port of Los Angeles’ safe and efficient operations, vital for supply chain resilience.
Cargo Breakdown Reflects Shifting Dynamics at the Port of Los Angeles
An analysis of October’s cargo movements shows a nuanced picture. Loaded imports experienced a 7% decrease year-over-year, landing at 429,283 TEUs. Conversely, loaded exports saw a modest increase of 1%, totaling 123,768 TEUs. The movement of empty container units declined by 8% year-over-year, with 295,380 TEUs processed for the month. These figures suggest a normalization of import patterns following the tariff-driven surge in shipments observed in the preceding year, impacting the overall container volume at the Port of Los Angeles.
Anticipating a Seasonal Slowdown at the Port of Los Angeles
Despite the strong performance pushing towards the 10 million TEU goal, Seroka anticipates a seasonal softening of cargo volumes in November and December 2025 compared to the previous year. This expected dip is largely due to well-stocked retail and manufacturing inventories, reducing the immediate need for replenishment that characterized the elevated cargo levels in late 2024, which were partly driven by businesses front-loading shipments ahead of potential tariff changes. This anticipation is crucial for managing the logistics network effectively.
Navigating Trade Uncertainty and Future Outlook for the Port of Los Angeles
This latest News from the Port of Los Angeles underscores its critical role as a linchpin in global supply chains, navigating complex trade policies and economic shifts. The Port of Los Angeles’ ability to manage significant cargo volumes, even amidst trade volatility and changing tariff landscapes, highlights its operational prowess and commitment to supply chain resilience. Jennifer Barrera, President and CEO of the California Chamber of Commerce, joined Seroka at the recent briefing, offering insights into the impact of tariffs, the broader business climate in California, and ongoing regulatory reform efforts, emphasizing the Port of Los Angeles’ position at the intersection of international trade policy and economic resilience.
The final weeks of 2025 will be pivotal in determining whether the Port of Los Angeles achieves its ambitious goal of processing 10 million TEUs. Regardless of the final tally, the Port of Los Angeles’ performance through October demonstrates its enduring capacity and strategic importance in the global logistics network. The Los Angeles business community will be watching closely as this potential historic milestone nears, a testament to the significant container volume handled by this leading Western Hemisphere port.
