Los Angeles

Bunkering in the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach

The neighbouring ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach form the busiest container port complex in North America. Located on the southern California coast, they are the main US gateway for trade with Asia. Many vessels bunker here before or after crossing the Pacific.

Los Angeles is the busiest container port in the US, with Long Beach close behind. The ports also serve tankers, bulk carriers, car carriers and cruise ships, creating steady demand for Los Angeles bunker fuel.

The Port of Los Angeles and the Port of Long Beach are each run by their city’s Harbor Department. Suppliers deliver fuel by barge to vessels at berth or at anchor, and weather conditions are generally stable throughout the year. Bunker availability depends on demand and supplier schedules. Booking stems with plenty of notice helps secure the widest choice of suppliers. Ships can also arrange crew changes, repairs and supplies during the same port call.

Los Angeles Bunker Prices Today

The ports lie within the North American Emission Control Area, and California applies its own, stricter rules. Within 24 nautical miles of the coast, vessels must burn distillate fuel with no more than
0.10% sulphur.

• VLSFO: Very low sulphur fuel oil serves vessels on transpacific voyages beyond Emission Control Areas. The Los Angeles VLSFO price is a key reference point for the US West Coast.
• HSFO: High sulphur fuel oil is available for scrubber-fitted vessels to burn once they leave California waters, where it cannot be used. The Los Angeles HSFO price usually trades at a discount to VLSFO.
• MGO: Marine gas oil is in strong demand, as it meets both the Emission Control Area and California rules. The Los Angeles MGO price is typically the highest of the three grades.

Check Los Angeles bunker prices today in the price cards above, or contact our trading team for a firm quote.