由 lltx1822 Severe Congestion in West Coast US Shipping! In Q3 2025, Express Shipping Timeliness Plummeted by 30%. How Can Freight Forwarders Navigate This Crisis?
In the third quarter of 2025, congestion at West Coast US ports has become increasingly severe, causing significant headaches for numerous freight forwarders and cargo owners. Data from the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach shows that the average waiting time for ships to berth has extended from 2 days to 7 days, slashing the overall timeliness of West Coast US express shipping by 30%. Behind this crisis lie both the surge in freight volume due to the recovery of the global supply chain and deep-seated issues such as port labor shortages and aging equipment.
For freight forwarders, addressing congestion requires a multi-pronged approach. First and foremost, advance planning of shipping routes and schedules is crucial. Establish closer cooperation with shipping companies to obtain accurate schedule information, prioritize services with high on-time arrival rates, and set aside sufficient buffer time. Secondly, consider multimodal transport solutions, such as diverting some cargo via rail or truck to East Coast US ports and then transporting it inland to the destination, thus bypassing West Coast congestion. Additionally, leverage digital tools to monitor cargo status in real time, promptly communicate delays to clients, and offer alternative plans to maintain trust. Freight forwarders should also strengthen collaboration with customs brokers and trucking companies to ensure efficient customs clearance and pickup, minimizing cargo detention time at the port.