IS ESSENTIAL TO AMERICA

Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, the freight and logistics community across the Inland Empire has demonstrated its vital importance to the daily lives of millions of people across our nation. From logistics managers to truck drivers and warehouse workers, we recognize you for your heroic efforts to keep our supply chain moving. Without your hard work, we would not have persisted through emergency stay-at-home orders or managed the unprecedented volume of cargo spurred by this pandemic.

Above all, this crisis has highlighted your role as essential workers in a supply chain that American businesses and households rely on now more than ever. That is why it is imperative that freight and warehouse logistics employers and workers have access to COVID-19 vaccines and, when made available, we encourage everyone to receive the vaccination as soon as possible.

STRENGTHENING THE SUPPLY CHAIN

Goods movement through our port complex supports 1 in 9 jobs across the broader region, but we are navigating an uncertain time in trade and logistics. Trade wars and the pandemic have placed extraordinary pressures on international supply chains. Overcoming these challenges will require increased cooperation, communication, and flexibility.

For example, a worldwide shortage of shipping containers is making the pick-up and return of containers by cargo owners especially critical in our efforts to reduce congestion at marine terminals. As cargo owners do their part to keep these assets moving to and from our port, we are working with our terminal operators to improve drayage efficiency.

We also offer the Control Tower and other online data tools that provide cargo owners with visibility of their shipments weeks in advance of arrival and can help them plan for the timely pick-up of their containers. In addition, a Return Signal feature helps truckers easily identify terminals that will accept their empty container returns.

WE ARE COMMITTED TO YOUR SUCCESS

What we learn from our current challenges will serve us well for years to come. Our continued collaboration is the key to Southern California’s future as America’s #1 trade gateway. Working together, we can focus our efforts on remaining competitive, supporting well-paying jobs, and continuing to reduce emissions for the benefit of the Southland communities we serve.