Port of LA Cargo Volume: 2025 Data & Trends

As the largest container gateway in North America, the Port of Los Angeles plays a critical role in the global supply chain. The first half of 2025 has delivered a clearer picture of how post-pandemic recovery, shifting trade lanes, and infrastructure upgrades are shaping cargo movement through the port. With volumes stabilizing and efficiency improving, the data shows a port in transition—neither in crisis nor booming, but adapting.

Container Volume Is Rebounding — But Leveling Off

Through May 2025, the Port of Los Angeles moved approximately 6.7 million twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs), a slight increase from the same period in 2024. While not matching the record-breaking highs of 2021, this marks a consistent upward trend for the second consecutive year.

A mix of consumer electronics, retail goods, and auto parts continues to drive the majority of inbound traffic. On the export side, agriculture, recycled materials, and industrial components remain dominant.

The takeaway is that while volume growth has returned, it’s not explosive. It’s steady, manageable, and more predictable than it was during the peak-disruption years.

Asia Remains the Anchor, But Trade Routes Are Shifting

The bulk of cargo entering the Port of LA still comes from Asia. China, South Korea, and Vietnam account for the largest share of inbound shipments. However, there has been a noticeable uptick in traffic from Southeast Asian nations like Thailand and Indonesia, reflecting the gradual diversification of manufacturing hubs outside China.

Exports are also shifting. While Asia remains the leading destination for outbound containers, trade with Latin America and parts of Europe has grown slightly compared to previous years. These subtle changes suggest importers and exporters are hedging their logistics bets and broadening their sourcing strategies.

Seasonal Patterns Continue to Shape Port Traffic

Like clockwork, the Port of Los Angeles follows a predictable seasonal rhythm. Spring typically brings a surge as retailers prepare for summer demand, followed by a midsummer dip and a strong ramp-up heading into the fall and holiday shopping season.

So far in 2025, these seasonal patterns have largely held. March and April saw higher volumes, particularly in clothing, electronics, and home goods. By June, activity began to taper slightly, aligning with the usual summer slowdown. Industry forecasts point to a strong August and September, driven by early holiday inventory shipments.

This predictability is helping shippers and carriers better plan vessel rotations and inland distribution schedules.

Operational Pressures Persist — But Mitigation Is Working

Even with improvements in throughput, the Port of LA isn’t without its pain points. Truck congestion, rail car shortages, and occasional labor disruptions continue to create friction in the system. However, targeted infrastructure investments and process changes are making a difference.

Automated gate systems are reducing wait times, while expanded appointment windows for trucks are helping balance the daily flow. Several terminals have also implemented smart scheduling tools that reduce idling and improve container pickup rates. Dwell times—how long containers stay at port—have decreased compared to early 2024.

It’s not perfect, but it’s a marked improvement from the gridlock conditions that plagued the port during the pandemic.

Infrastructure Projects Are Starting to Pay Off

One of the biggest stories in 2025 is the maturation of several long-term capital improvement projects. Cranes capable of handling ultra-large vessels are now fully operational, and the Terminal Island railyard expansion is delivering faster turnarounds for cargo headed inland.

There’s also a growing focus on sustainability. Shore power systems are in wider use, reducing emissions from idling ships. Electric cargo-handling equipment is being deployed across multiple terminals. These initiatives aren’t just environmental—they’re also increasing efficiency by modernizing outdated systems.

As the port prepares for continued growth through the end of the decade, these projects are expected to serve as critical pressure-release valves.

A Measured Forecast for the Rest of the Year

Looking ahead, most analysts expect the Port of LA to end 2025 with modest year-over-year growth. The global shipping landscape remains volatile, but inventory restocking, steady consumer demand, and improved reliability across trade lanes should support sustained throughput.

Much will depend on macroeconomic conditions—interest rates, consumer spending, and international demand. But unlike in recent years, there’s now a clearer baseline for what “normal” looks like at the port, and that’s a welcome development for everyone involved in the logistics chain.

Final Thoughts

The Port of Los Angeles in 2025 is defined by stability, not spikes. Volume is growing slowly but steadily. Trade routes are evolving, but not dramatically. And while operational challenges remain, they’re being met with meaningful improvements.

This isn’t a return to business as usual—it’s a shift toward a more balanced and adaptable port ecosystem. For shippers, importers, and logistics professionals, that’s good news. It means fewer surprises and more room to plan with confidence.