Schednet 30/8/07

NORASIA, Wan Hai Lines and Sinotrans Container Lines are to stop using the US Port of Los Angeles and will begin dropping anchor at the neighbouring Port of Long Beach in November.

The shipping lines are said to be moving because of the long-delayed expansion of LA's TraPac terminal, reports The Daily Breeze.

The expansion delay at TraPac terminal has been attributed to environmental concerns, as an impact report on the proposed expansion work will not be completed until year's end, according to Geraldine Knatz, executive director of the Port of Los Angeles.

Port officials said the last ship representing the lines will dock at the Port of Los Angeles on November 8. Thereafter the carriers' ships will call at Total Terminals International at the Port of Long Beach's Pier T.

"Third party business moves between ports in this industry happen all the time," Ms Knatz said. "The Port of Los Angeles, our marketing staff continually works with our tenants to find opportunities where business exists to optimise their facilities."