Long Beach container volumes higher in September

   The Port of Long Beach handled 587,114 TEU in September, 14.7 percent more than in September 2012.
   Volumes of containers holding imports and exports as well as empty containers were all up over last September’s levels. Imports increased 16.2 percent to 307,981 TEU; exports rose by 17.2 percent to 134,676 TEU; and empties were up 9.4 percent to 144,457 TEU. With imports exceeding exports, empties are sent overseas to be refilled with goods.
   For the first nine months of 2013, cargo container volume is up 13.7 percent ―including 16.2 percent more imports, 11.5 percent more exports, and 10.8 percent more empties.
   Long Beach said September is the second busiest month of 2013 so far, behind August. Traditionally, August through October is the “peak season” for ocean-borne imports, as retailers prepare for a rise in buying as the end-of-the-year holidays approach.