美国
United States
1. Port Overview
The Port of Los Angeles, located in San Pedro Bay, California, on the Pacific coast, is the busiest container port in the United States. Together with the adjacent Port of Long Beach, it forms the San Pedro Bay Port Complex, through which approximately 40% of U.S. container imports enter the country.
The China-U.S. route is one of Bofeng Logistics' core businesses, and the Port of Los Angeles, as a major West Coast base port, offers frequent weekly sailings.
2. Port Size and Facilities
The Port of Los Angeles has 7 major container terminals, 27 container berths, and an annual container throughput of approximately 9 million TEUs, with berth depths of 14-16 meters (according to Port of Los Angeles 2025 data). Major terminal operators include APM Terminals, Fenix Marine Services, Everport, Trapac, and others. The port connects to the rest of the United States via the BNSF and Union Pacific rail networks.
3. Main Shipping Routes from China
| Origin Port | Transit Time (Reference) | Common Carriers |
|---|---|---|
| Shanghai | 13-15 days | COSCO, MSC, MAERSK, CMA CGM |
| Shenzhen/Yantian | 12-14 days | EVERGREEN, ONE, COSCO |
| Ningbo | 13-16 days | MAERSK, MSC |
| Qingdao | 14-17 days | COSCO, CMA CGM |
U.S. routes are heavily affected by Port of Los Angeles terminal congestion — delays of 3-7 days may occur during peak season (July-October). It is recommended to allow ample transit time or choose vessel arrivals on Wednesday/Thursday (which typically have shorter queue times at terminals).
4. Key Points on Trade and Logistics with China
China is the largest source of U.S. imports. Major cargoes include:
- From China to the U.S.: Machinery & electrical products, furniture, toys, textiles, footwear, electronics
- From the U.S. to China: Soybeans, cotton, timber, scrap metal, chemical products
Bofeng Logistics Experience Sharing: Terminal congestion at the Port of Los Angeles has been a common issue in recent years. We recommend: ① Book shipments 3 weeks in advance during peak season; ② Choose shipping lines with priority berthing rights; ③ Consider rail intermodal (IPI) to move cargo directly to inland points such as Chicago/Dallas, avoiding long waits at the Port of Los Angeles. Bofeng Logistics can provide end-to-end logistics solutions.
5. Shipping Considerations
Key Factors Affecting Shipping Costs
| Factor | Description |
|---|---|
| Peak Season Surcharge (PSS) | During the peak season (July-October), carriers typically add a PSS of $500–$1,500 per container, which is the biggest variable affecting freight rates. |
| Congestion Surcharge (CGS) | When LA/LB terminals are severely congested, carriers may impose a port congestion surcharge. |
| IPI vs. Local Delivery | For destinations in the U.S. East/Midwest, rail intermodal (IPI) is more economical than direct all-water service via the Panama Canal to the East Coast. |
| Equipment Shortage | 40HQ containers are often in short supply during peak season; it is advisable to book containers early or accept alternative container types. |
Note: The above is an industry-wide cost factor analysis and does not constitute a specific quotation. Please contact us for real-time freight rates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the difference between the Port of Los Angeles and the Port of Long Beach?
A: The two ports are adjacent, share the same channel, and carriers may have terminals in both. Differences include: ① Different terminal operators; ② The Port of Long Beach has larger rail intermodal facilities; ③ The two ports may take turns experiencing congestion during peak season, so alternating between them is recommended to spread risk.
Q: How can cargo be moved to the U.S. East Coast market after arriving at the Port of Los Angeles?
A: Via rail IPI services: containers are moved directly from the port onto trains to hubs such as Chicago (approx. 5-7 days), Memphis, and Dallas, then distributed to various East Coast destinations. This is the most common intermodal solution for the U.S. East Coast.
Q: What certifications are required for imports into the U.S.?
A: Electronic products require FCC certification; wooden/grass products require fumigation certificates; food, drugs, and cosmetics require FDA registration. U.S. Customs strictly enforces intellectual property rights — authorization letters are required for branded products.
6. Bofeng Logistics Services
On the China-to-Port of Los Angeles route, Bofeng Logistics offers:
- Full Container Load (FCL): 20GP, 40GP, 40HQ, 45HQ
- Less than Container Load (LCL): Regular weekly consolidation from Guangzhou/Shenzhen to Los Angeles
- Customs Clearance: China export customs clearance + U.S. import customs clearance consultation
- U.S. Inland Intermodal: Rail/truck distribution from Los Angeles to Chicago/Dallas/New York and other locations
📍 Please contact us for real-time freight rates.
Related Ports: Port of Long Beach | Port of New York