The Port of Long Beach witnessed a slowdown in cargo container movement in September 2025, as tariffs, rising prices, and weakening consumer demand continued to influence trade patterns. Despite strong performance earlier in the year, shifting trade policies and global economic headwinds have tempered growth in one of the busiest U.S. ports.
Decline in Cargo Volumes Amid Global Trade Shifts
In September, dockworkers and terminal operators handled 797,537 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) a 3.9% drop compared to the same month in 2024. Imports fell 6.9% to 388,084 TEUs, while exports decreased 3.6% to 85,081 TEUs. However, the number of empty containers moving through the Port slightly increased to 324,372 TEUs, indicating ongoing adjustments in global trade logistics.
Port of Long Beach CEO Mario Cordero noted that tariffs are reshaping financial and purchasing decisions for both consumers and business owners. He also highlighted that the Port’s Supply Chain Information Highway digital tracker projects a relatively stable October, followed by a modest dip in November due to weather-related disruptions and vessel scheduling changes.
Maintaining Stability and Operational Excellence
Despite the decline, port officials commended the workforce and industry partners for maintaining high operational standards. Frank Colonna, President of the Long Beach Harbor Commission, emphasized that the Port’s reputation as a premier trans-Pacific trade gateway depends on ensuring the swift, reliable, and sustainable movement of goods.
The Port reported that it handled 7,390,245 TEUs in the first nine months of 2025 a 6.8% increase compared to the same period last year. The July-to-September quarter also marked the Port’s second-busiest quarter on record, with 2,643,614 TEUs processed.
While tariffs and declining consumer demand have slowed trade momentum at the Port of Long Beach, its long-term performance remains resilient. With investments in digital infrastructure and supply chain visibility tools, the Port continues to strengthen its role as a critical hub for trans-Pacific commerce balancing current challenges with a focus on efficiency and sustainability.
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Source: PORT OF LONG BEACH
