The Port of Los Angeles reported another cargo surge in March saying it processed 957,599 Twenty-Foot Equivalent Units (TEUs) last month, or a 113% leap compared to the same period last year when global trade slowed to a crawl at the outset of the COVID-19 pandemic.

America's busiest port said the latest figure "was the strongest March in the Port’s 114-year history." It is also the busiest first quarter and by far the largest monthly year-over-year increase.

Year to date, overall cargo volume has increased 44% compared to 2020.

“As more Americans get vaccinated, businesses reopen and the economy strengthens, consumers continue to purchase goods at a dizzying pace,” said Port of Los Angeles executive director Gene Seroka.

“Collectively, we have been able to significantly reduce the number of container vessels awaiting offshore.” 

March 2021 loaded imports reached 490,115 TEUs, an increase of 123% compared to the previous year.

Loaded exports also edged up 1.5% to 122,899 TEUs, while empty containers, heavily in demand in Asia, surged 219% compared to March 2020 reaching 344,585 TEUs.

A total of 95 cargo vessels arrived in March, including four extra loaders.

North America’s leading seaport by container volume and cargo value, Port of Los Angeles facilitated US$259 billion in trade during 2020.