Port of Long Beach: August 2013 Fuel Busiest Month Since 2007 (USA)

Containerized cargo volume at the Port of Long Beach surged 16 percent in August compared to the same month one year ago, with double-digit percentage gains in both imports and exports.

August 2013 is not only the busiest month in 2013 so far, but is the busiest month for cargo at Long Beach since October 2007. August through October each year is traditionally the “peak season” for ocean-borne imports, as retailers prepare for a rise in buying as the end-of-the-year holidays approach.

A total of 630,292 TEUs (or twenty-foot equivalent container units) moved through Long Beach in August. Imports increased 19.2 percent to 327,817 TEUs. Exports were up by 20.2 percent to 154,118 TEUs.

Empties were up 5.8 percent to 148,357 TEUs. With imports exceeding exports, empties are sent overseas to be refilled with goods.

For the first eight months of calendar 2013, cargo container volume is up 13.6 percent ? including 16.2 percent more imports, 10.9 percent more exports and 11 percent more empties.

With larger and larger ships visiting more frequently since the end of 2012, Port officials are working to offer premier customer service and facilities to the international shipping industry.

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Port of Long Beach, September 18, 2013