LA/Long Beach ports: strong 2025 performance amid year-end cooling

Port activity has remained steady despite ongoing tariff discussions, with the Los Angeles and Long Beach complex holding up well. Early‑2025 front‑loading kept volumes elevated, and even with some supply‑chain diversification, the port complex continues to dominate as the primary U.S. gateway, moving roughly 12.7M loaded TEUs in 2025 and anchoring regional logistics demand.

However, elevated cargo volumes didn’t immediately translate into stronger industrial demand. Faster throughput reduced long‑term storage needs and left fundamentals uneven for several quarters. Recently, easing rates and a more optimistic consumer outlook have brought major retailers and 3PLs back into the market, increasing touring and deal activity and signaling a return in occupier confidence. Late‑period big‑box transactions included Spirit of Halloween, Kumho Tire, RJW, and Elogistek, totaling more than 2.7M square feet.

Tariffs remain the primary swing factor influencing shipment timing and trade flows. Even so, the long‑term importance of the LA/LB gateway remains unchanged. As tariff clarity improves, occupiers should be able to refine routing strategies—potentially supporting the next wave of industrial demand as supply chains adjust.

Inland Empire
Erick Parulan
Misha Smith