For any business involved in Shipping from China to USA, understanding the capabilities of the Port of Los Angeles is crucial for building an efficient supply chain. As the busiest seaport in the Western Hemisphere and known as “America’s Port®,” it serves as the primary gateway for trans-Pacific trade between the United States and Asia. Its strategic location on the U.S. West Coast makes it a vital entry point for goods destined for markets across the entire country. For businesses importing from China, the port’s direct and frequent shipping routes translate to shorter transit times and greater efficiency, while its consistent performance and massive scale provide a level of reliability that is essential for modern global trade. This article delves into the port’s key statistics, its strategic importance for China-US shipments, and its world-class infrastructure and technology.
Key Statistics and Performance (2024 Data)
The port’s performance in recent years underscores its importance. After a strong year, 2024 was the second-busiest in the port’s 117-year history, demonstrating its capacity to handle immense volumes and bounce back from global supply chain disruptions.
| Metric (2024 Calendar Year) | Value |
|---|---|
| Total Annual TEUs Handled | 10,297,352 TEUs |
| Total Imports | 5,364,209 TEUs |
| Loaded Exports | 1,494,201 TEUs |
| Busiest Quarter (Q3 2024) | 2,854,904 TEUs |
Source: Port of Los Angeles Official Statistics
Shipping Transit Times from China to Los Angeles
| Origin Port (China) | Destination Port | Estimated Transit Time (Days) |
|---|---|---|
| Shanghai | Port of Los Angeles | 14 – 20 |
| Shenzhen | Port of Los Angeles | 13 – 18 |
| Ningbo | Port of Los Angeles | 15 – 21 |
| Qingdao | Port of Los Angeles | 16 – 22 |
| Xiamen | Port of Los Angeles | 18 – 25 |
Note: The following transit times are estimates for port-to-port shipping. They can vary based on the carrier, service route, weather conditions, and port congestion. For a precise schedule, please contact our logistics team.
Shipping Costs from China to Los Angeles
| Origin Port (China) | Destination Port | Estimated Cost per 40′ Container (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Shanghai | Port of Los Angeles | $2,000 – $3,500 |
| Shenzhen | Port of Los Angeles | $2,000 – $3,500 |
| Ningbo | Port of Los Angeles | $2,100 – $3,600 |
| Qingdao | Port of Los Angeles | $2,200 – $3,800 |
| Xiamen | Port of Los Angeles | $2,300 – $4,000 |
Note: The following prices are estimated ranges for a standard 40-foot container (FCL). Actual costs are highly volatile and depend on seasonal demand, carrier, fuel prices, and specific cargo requirements. For a firm, up-to-the-minute quote, please contact Dantful International Logistics directly.
Strategic Importance for China-US Shipments
The Port of Los Angeles is the number one container port for trade with China in the United States, with trade from China accounting for a significant 34% of the port’s total volume in 2024. This deep-rooted relationship ensures well-established shipping lanes and experienced handlers for all types of cargo.
Key imports from China include high-value electronics like laptops and lithium-ion batteries, as well as furniture, apparel, and automotive parts. The port’s advanced infrastructure is specifically designed to process these goods quickly and move them into the extensive U.S. distribution network.
World-Class Infrastructure and Technology
To maintain its top-tier status, the Port of Los Angeles continuously invests in its infrastructure. Key features include:
- 25 Cargo Terminals: Handling a diverse range of cargo from containers to automobiles and liquid bulk.
- Deep Channels: Accommodating the largest container ships in the world (Post-Panamax vessels).
- Advanced Technology: Utilization of the Port Optimizer™, a digital platform that improves cargo flow and tracking by providing real-time, data-driven insights to supply chain partners.
- On-Dock Rail: Extensive on-dock rail facilities reduce transit times and transportation costs by minimizing the need for truck transfers to off-site rail yards, a key component of efficient Road Freight and intermodal strategies.
Why Choose Dantful for Shipments to Los Angeles?
Navigating the complexities of a mega-port like Los Angeles requires a Freight Forwarder with deep expertise. Dantful International Logistics offers a highly professional, cost-effective, and high-quality one-stop service tailored for global traders. Our team has extensive experience managing shipments into the Port of Los Angeles, ensuring seamless customs clearance, efficient drayage, and optimized inland distribution. By partnering with us, you leverage our local knowledge and strong relationships to avoid delays and minimize costs.
Contact Dantful International Logistics today to streamline your shipments from China to the Port of Los Angeles and beyond.