May 2025 cargo volumes at the Port of Long Beach fell 8.2% year-on-year, as tariffs and retaliatory trade measures disrupted normal freight flows.
However, with a temporary pause on tariffs expected to take effect soon, port officials anticipate a cargo surge by late June, ahead of the peak shipping season.
Despite the May slowdown, the port has handled 4,042,228 TEUs from January through May 2025, reflecting a 17.2% increase over the same period in 2024.
Mario Cordero, CEO of the Port of Long Beach, said that despite ongoing uncertainty, they are continuing to invest in rail and terminal upgrades to ensure safe, efficient, and sustainable cargo movement.