CALIFORNIA - There has been some groundbreaking movement on the port congestion front in California, as President Biden recently announced the United States government will take action against recent challenges. In regard to this announcement, the government has now revealed its plans to expand pick-up and return hours at both the Port of Los Angeles and the Port of Long Beach.

“We appreciate the leadership of the Biden-Harris Administration in marshalling a response to the unprecedented global supply chain disruption so acutely felt here at the San Pedro Bay Port Complex,” said Gene Seroka, Executive Director of the Port of Los Angeles. “These steps, in addition to what has previously been recommended, demonstrate that the Port of Los Angeles will continue to innovate in order to manage this historic cargo surge.”

According to the news source Port Strategy, this strategic implementation follows consultation with multiple supply chain stakeholders as well as the U.S. Department of Transportation. In Los Angeles, Seroka stated that the port will be expanding the hours for its weekend operating gate to help ease transportation congestion.

In Long Beach, the port will begin working toward a 24/7 supply chain by maximizing its night operations. The news source noted that these ports have each called on marine terminal operators to push for the use of all available hours, especially for night gates, to reduce congestion and maximize cargo throughput capacity.

“The Port of Long Beach is prepared to take bold and immediate action to help the supply chain move the record cargo volumes that keep our economy moving, and we appreciate the support and leadership shown by the Biden-Harris Administration,” said Mario Cordero, Executive Director of the Port of Long Beach.

These initiatives will be implemented in partnership with the U.S. trucking community in order to best maximize efficiencies. By working together, these groups will identify new opportunities to help move cargo in and out of the country. The White House Supply Chain Disruptions Task Force is also working to relieve the pressure of bottlenecks while bringing cargo to consumers in a more timely manner.

Time will tell how these strategies will impact the fresh produce supply chain, so stick with us.