Port of Los Angeles

The Port of Los Angeles is the busiest container seaport in the United States and one of the world's leading maritime trade gateways. Located in San Pedro Bay in Southern California, the port serves as a critical link between the United States and international markets, supporting the movement of cargo across the Pacific and connecting North America with Asia and other global trade routes.

As a major hub for container shipping and logistics, the Port of Los Angeles handles millions of cargo containers annually through its network of modern terminals and maritime facilities. The port supports importers, exporters, shipping lines, logistics providers, manufacturers, and retailers while contributing significantly to regional, national, and international commerce.

Quick Information

Services

The Port of Los Angeles provides a comprehensive range of maritime and logistics services that support international trade and domestic commerce. Its terminals handle containerized cargo, breakbulk cargo, liquid bulk, dry bulk, automobiles, project cargo, and other freight while providing vessel berthing, cargo handling, storage, customs-related processes, and logistics support for shipping lines, freight forwarders, importers, exporters, and supply chain providers.

In addition to cargo operations, the port supports cruise ship services, marine repair, bunkering, towage, pilotage, and other maritime activities. The port also works closely with rail operators, trucking companies, and distribution centers to facilitate the movement of goods throughout the United States.

Facilities & Operations

The Port of Los Angeles spans approximately 7,500 acres of land and water along San Pedro Bay. Its facilities include container terminals, automobile processing terminals, breakbulk facilities, liquid and dry bulk terminals, cruise terminals, warehouses, rail yards, and other maritime infrastructure operated by multiple authorized terminal operators.

As the busiest container port in the United States, the port connects with major international shipping routes across Asia, Oceania, Latin America, and other global markets. Cargo arriving at the port is transported throughout North America via an integrated network of railways, highways, and distribution facilities.

The Los Angeles Harbor Department continues to invest in terminal modernization, cargo-handling technology, digital systems, environmental initiatives, and infrastructure improvements to enhance operational efficiency, strengthen supply chain resilience, and support sustainable port operations.

Before You Use

Before shipping cargo through the Port of Los Angeles, businesses should confirm the terminal handling their shipment, as documentation requirements, cargo acceptance procedures, appointment systems, and gate operating schedules vary between terminal operators. Shipping lines, freight forwarders, customs brokers, and logistics providers can assist in identifying the appropriate terminal and shipment requirements.

Importers, exporters, customs brokers, trucking companies, and logistics operators should ensure that all customs documentation, import or export declarations, permits, and supporting paperwork comply with United States Customs and Border Protection (CBP) requirements and other applicable regulations before cargo arrives at the port.

Access to operational port facilities is restricted. Truck drivers, contractors, vendors, and visitors entering secure areas must comply with the security procedures established by the Los Angeles Harbor Department and the respective terminal operator. Government-issued identification, terminal appointments, or access credentials may be required depending on the purpose of the visit.

Customers are encouraged to verify vessel schedules, terminal operating hours, truck appointment availability, gate schedules, and cargo release procedures with their shipping line or terminal operator before visiting the port, as operational schedules may change.

Contact Information

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Port of Los Angeles?

The Port of Los Angeles is the busiest container seaport in the United States and a major international gateway for maritime trade. It connects North America with global shipping routes and supports the movement of cargo between the United States and markets around the world.

Who manages the Port of Los Angeles?

The port is managed by the Los Angeles Harbor Department, an agency of the City of Los Angeles. Individual cargo terminals are operated by authorized private terminal operators under agreements with the Harbor Department.

What services are available at the Port of Los Angeles?

The port provides container handling, breakbulk cargo services, liquid and dry bulk handling, automobile processing, cruise operations, logistics support, marine services, and vessel berthing for domestic and international shipping.

Does the Port of Los Angeles handle cruise ships?

Yes. In addition to cargo operations, the port operates the Los Angeles World Cruise Center, which serves cruise lines offering voyages to destinations in Mexico, the Pacific Coast, Hawaii, and other international ports.

Can members of the public enter the Port of Los Angeles?

Public access is available in designated areas such as the Los Angeles World Cruise Center and public waterfront attractions. Operational cargo terminals and restricted port facilities are accessible only to authorized personnel, drivers, contractors, and individuals conducting approved port-related business.

How can I identify the terminal handling my shipment?

Your shipping line, freight forwarder, customs broker, or logistics provider can confirm the terminal assigned to your shipment and provide instructions regarding cargo delivery, documentation, and collection procedures.

Where can I find official port notices and operational updates?

Official news, notices, advisories, environmental updates, and operational information are published by the Port of Los Angeles through its official website and communication channels.

How can I contact the Port of Los Angeles?

General enquiries may be directed to the Los Angeles Harbor Department. Shipment-specific enquiries should be addressed to the relevant shipping line, terminal operator, freight forwarder, or logistics provider responsible for handling the cargo.

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