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U.S. Port Problems Reach Worst of Pandemic Amid Crush of Imports

  • L.A.-Long Beach ship queue now stands at a record 44 vessels
  • Average wait is longer, adding delivery costs and headaches
Port congestion at Los Angeles and Long Beach ports, on Aug. 26. 

Port congestion at Los Angeles and Long Beach ports, on Aug. 26. 

Source: Copernicus Sentinel Data 2021

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The number of ships waiting to enter the biggest U.S. gateway for trade with Asia reached the highest since the pandemic began, exacerbating delays for companies trying to replenish inventories during one of the busiest times of the year for seaborne freight.