Global Logistics Update: Alpha Trains, DP World and Port of LA

The Port of Los Angeles handled 840,165 total TEUs in May, with imports rising 26% as U.S. retailers accelerate shipments to avoid fuel cost hikes and geopolitical instability in the Middle East. This surge, particularly in plastic goods, marks the second-highest import level ever recorded at the terminal, according to port data.

Why are container volumes increasing at the Port of Los Angeles?

Retailers are pulling orders forward to mitigate the impact of rising fuel costs and uncertainty in the Middle East. Import volumes reached 449,370 TEUs in May, contributing to an 11.5% annual increase in overall U.S. container imports.

Plastic products classified under code HS 39 saw a 26% increase, totaling 251,706 TEUs. Plastic stationery and school supplies grew by nearly 87%, while plastic kitchen and tableware items increased by 57%.

This acceleration could increase pressure on terminals, rail networks, and road transport in Southern California. Such congestion may lead to longer container dwell times and affect the regularity of port operations.

How is DP World planning its return to the U.S. market?

DP World has entered exclusive negotiations for a long-term lease at the Port of Corpus Christi in Texas. The Dubai-based group intends to design and construct a new infrastructure if the deal is finalized.

The company currently maintains logistics operations in North Carolina and Pennsylvania. It utilizes Vancouver as its primary entry point for U.S.-bound goods, using rail links to reach Chicago and other regions.

The Port of Corpus Christi is a leading U.S. hub by total tonnage, driven by the movement of chemicals, energy, agricultural products, and bulk goods.

What are the details of the Alpha Trains and Stadler agreement?

Alpha Trains and Stadler signed a contract for 25 additional Euro6000 multi-system electric locomotives, with deliveries scheduled for 2028. This order brings the total number of Euro6000 units in the Alpha Trains fleet to 92.

The partnership, active since 2007, has now resulted in over 150 total locomotive orders. The new units will serve both Iberian gauge and standard UIC gauge networks.

Iberian gauge locomotives will support Spanish freight transport and national logistics efficiency. UIC gauge versions will operate along the Mediterranean corridor, connecting Spain with France, Belgium, and Luxembourg.

Each Euro6000 locomotive features six axles and 6 MW of power. They are capable of pulling trains exceeding 2,000 tons on steep gradients while maintaining commercial speeds.

Who will manage the Årsta intermodal terminal?

Green Cargo will take over the management of the Årsta intermodal terminal south of Stockholm following an agreement with state real estate company Jernhusen. The transition will occur no earlier than October 1, 2026, with the agreement lasting until 2029.

The terminal is a primary freight gateway for the Swedish capital, handling consumer goods, retail items, and food. Green Cargo will keep terminal operations organizationally separate from its rail activities to ensure independence and equal treatment.

Jernhusen owns five major Swedish terminals, including those in Malmö, Västerås, Helsingborg, and Nässjö. While those four have remained stable for over a decade, Årsta will have five different operators in 14 years. Bring Intermodal, owned by the Swedish Post, previously managed the site.

Do you think the diversification of U.S. port entries will effectively reduce the pressure on Southern California’s infrastructure?