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Los Angeles · Economy

Port of Los Angeles handles 1.03 million TEUs in October, second-busiest month ever

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The Port of Los Angeles handled 1,026,872 twenty-foot equivalent units in October, a record for the month and the second-highest monthly total in its history, marking the first time it has topped one million TEUs in consecutive months; the port says 2026 could be its busiest year ever if December also delivers.

The Port of Los Angeles handled 1,026,872 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) in October, a record for the month and the second-highest monthly total in the port's history, after September's all-time record of 1,042,652 TEUs. The port announced the figures on November 12, saying it was the first time it has surpassed one million TEUs in consecutive months and the third million-TEU month of 2026; no other US port has handled one million TEUs in a single month.

October loaded imports reached about 538,620 TEUs, up 25% on last year and 30% above the port's five-year October average. Loaded exports totalled 114,981 TEUs, down 7% on October 2025. The port handled 373,271 empty TEUs, a second consecutive monthly record, as ocean carriers repositioned equipment to Asia for additional shipments.

Strongest five-month stretch on record; busiest year in sight

From June through October, the port processed nearly five million TEUs, the strongest five-month stretch in its history. Through the first ten months of 2026 it has handled about 9,108,497 TEUs, 5% ahead of last year and 9% above its five-year average. Executive Director Gene Seroka attributed the continued surge to steady consumer spending, retailers replenishing inventories, changes in trade policy and ongoing challenges along other global shipping routes. He said that if December also delivers, 2026 could be the busiest year in the port's 118-year history.

Labour talks extended to November 20; strike risk remains

The record volumes come as contract talks between the Pacific Maritime Association and ILWU Local 26, which represents about 250 maritime watchmen at the Los Angeles and Long Beach ports, have been extended to November 20. A strike remains possible if no deal is reached, and longshore Local 13 and marine clerks Local 63 have said they would honour Local 26 picket lines. Federal mediators are assisting the negotiations.

(File photo: a container terminal at the Port of Los Angeles. Image: WorldCargo News)

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