Concerns about new import tariffs are causing imports to rise at US ports. In Long Beach on the US West Coast, new handling records are even being set.
Many importers are apparently trying to fill their warehouses before the import tariffs threatened or already imposed by US President Donald Trump make goods considerably more expensive. In February alone, 765,385 TEU were moved in the port of Long Beach, an increase of 13.4% compared to the same month last year.
Imports rose by 11.8% to 368,669 TEU, while exports increased by just 2.9% to 90,026 TEU. The number of empty containers rose by 19.1% to 306,690 TEU, according to a statement from the port company.
The port handled 1.7 million TEU in the first two months of the year, an increase of 27.4% compared to the same period in 2024.
