The Port of Los Angeles processed 840,165 Twenty-Foot Equivalent Units (TEUs) in May, 17% above last year as import volume increased amid continued uncertainty surrounding trade policy and global supply chains.
Through the first five months of 2026, the Port has handled 4,119,869 TEUs, 1.4% ahead of the pace set during the same period last year.
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“Our strong May performance reflects the resilience of the American consumer and the ability of businesses to adapt in a continuously changing environment,” Port of Los Angeles Executive Director Gene Seroka told reporters at a media briefing. “We’re seeing cargo move for a combination of reasons, including inventory replenishment, concerns about fuel costs, trade-policy uncertainty and preparation for upcoming retail seasons. Companies are operating with shorter planning horizons and taking advantage of opportunities when they emerge.”
Seroka noted that cargo continues to move efficiently through the Port, with no vessel backlogs or cargo delays.
“Our terminals, longshore labour force, trucking companies and rail partners continue to deliver outstanding performance,” Seroka said. “That operational consistency gives cargo owners confidence that they can move freight quickly, reliably and without disruption through the Port of Los Angeles.”
Joining Seroka for the briefing was Dan Letter, Chief Executive Officer of Prologis. Letter discussed inventory trends, logistics real estate, supply chain investment and the outlook for goods movement as companies navigate ongoing economic and trade-policy uncertainty.
May 2026 loaded imports totaled 449,370 TEUs, a 26% increase compared to last year. The comparison was aided by softer import volume in May 2025, when many cargo owners temporarily paused shipments amid changing tariff policies. Loaded exports came in at 107,657 TEUs, 10% lower than last year. Empty containers totaled 283,138 TEUs, 18% above May 2025.