PierPass: Solving Congestion and Air Quality Challenges at the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach

The PierPass program has become a cornerstone in addressing one of the most pressing logistical and environmental challenges facing the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach: congestion during peak hours. Designed as a market-based solution, PierPass introduces measures like the Traffic Mitigation Fee (TMF) to incentivize nighttime container moves, reducing traffic on local roads and highways while improving air quality in surrounding communities.

This article explores how PierPass works, its impact on cargo movement, and the benefits it brings to port operations and the environment. By understanding the role of marine terminal gates, the structure of the offpeak program and how to navigate fees like the PierPass TMF, businesses can optimize their logistics strategies while contributing to a cleaner, more efficient supply chain.

What Is PierPass and Why Was It Created?

PierPass is a not-for-profit company created by marine terminal operators at the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach to address critical public problems such as congestion and air pollution. Launched in 2005, the offpeak program was designed as a market-based solution to reduce daytime traffic and encourage nighttime container moves. The goal was to alleviate pressure on local roads and highways while improving air quality for surrounding communities.

Before PierPass, peak hours at the marine terminal gates led to significant delays for truckers, increased fuel consumption, and higher emissions. By introducing a traffic mitigation fee (TMF), PierPass incentivized shippers and carriers to move cargo during off-peak hours, creating a more balanced flow of goods. This initiative was particularly important given that these two adjacent ports handle nearly 40% of all U.S. imports, making them vital to the nation’s supply chain.

How Does the Traffic Mitigation Fee (TMF) Work?

The Traffic Mitigation Fee (TMF) is a flat fee charged per twenty-foot equivalent unit (TEU) to cargo owners and importers who move containers during peak hours. For example, a standard 40-foot container, which equals two TEUs, incurs double the fee. The TMF is intended to offset the added cost of operating extended shifts at the terminals, which were introduced to support the offpeak program.

The fee structure ensures that carriers and cargo owners have a financial incentive to schedule pickups and deliveries during nighttime or other non-peak periods. Payments are processed through PierPass Inc, and businesses must register with the system to pay the fee. The TMF is not just an operational charge but also a tool to manage congestion and improve efficiency across the 12 container terminals in the two ports.

What Are the Benefits of the OffPeak Program for Ports and Communities?

The offpeak program offers numerous benefits for both port operations and local communities. By encouraging daytime and nighttime container moves, the program reduces congestion on nearby roads and highways, cutting down commute times for residents. Additionally, shifting container traffic to nighttime significantly improves air quality, as fewer trucks are idling during the day when emissions have a greater impact on populated areas.

For the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach, the offpeak program has helped streamline operations by distributing cargo movements more evenly throughout the day. This balance reduces bottlenecks at the marine terminal gates and allows for smoother processing of goods. Furthermore, the program supports sustainability goals, aligning with broader efforts to combat air pollution and create a greener supply chain.

How Do Businesses Register with PierPass and Pay the TMF?

To participate in the PierPass system, businesses must first register with PierPass through their website. Registration involves providing basic information about the company and agreeing to the terms of the program. Once registered, users gain access to tools for tracking and paying the traffic mitigation fee (TMF).

Payments for the PierPass TMF are typically handled electronically, ensuring a streamlined process. Freight forwarders and logistics companies often manage this step on behalf of their clients, integrating the fee into overall shipping costs. Understanding how to navigate the payment system is crucial for avoiding delays at the terminal gates and ensuring compliance with the program’s requirements.

What Role Do Marine Terminal Operators Play in PierPass?

Marine terminal operators are central to the success of PierPass, as they were the ones who developed and implemented the program. These operators established additional shifts per week at the container terminals to accommodate nighttime container moves, effectively expanding operational hours beyond traditional peak hours.

Through collaboration under the West Coast MTO Agreement (WCMTOA), terminal operators at the two adjacent ports coordinate schedules to ensure consistency and fairness in applying the TMF. Their collective efforts have addressed multi-terminal issues such as congestion and inefficiencies, creating a more cohesive and reliable system for moving cargo. The not-for-profit nature of PierPass Inc underscores the commitment of these operators to serving the broader community rather than generating profit.

How Has PierPass Evolved Since Its Introduction in 2005?

Since its launch in 2005, PierPass has undergone significant evolution to adapt to the growing demands of global trade and environmental regulations. Initially introduced as a solution to reduce congestion and improve air quality , the program quickly proved effective in redistributing cargo movements away from peak hours. However, as the volume of imports and exports continued to rise, particularly at the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach, the need for further refinements became apparent.

In response, PierPass 2.0 was introduced, marking a shift from a flat fee structure during peak hours to a more nuanced approach. Under this updated model, all moves—whether during daytime or nighttime —are subject to a single flat fee. This change aimed to simplify the system while maintaining incentives for off-peak operations. Additionally, advancements in technology have enabled real-time tracking of container movements, improving transparency and accountability for both terminal operators and cargo owners.

What Is PierPass 2.0, and How Does It Address Multi-Terminal Issues?

PierPass 2.0 represents a significant upgrade to the original program, addressing challenges such as multi-terminal issues and inefficiencies in scheduling. One of the key features of PierPass 2.0 is the introduction of a uniform fee structure that applies to all container moves, regardless of the time of day. This eliminates confusion and ensures consistency across the 12 container terminals in the two ports.

Moreover, PierPass 2.0 focuses on streamlining operations by encouraging better coordination among marine terminal operators. By standardizing gate hours and implementing advanced reservation systems, the program reduces bottlenecks and enhances the overall efficiency of cargo handling. These improvements not only benefit cargo owners and importers but also contribute to reducing air pollution and easing traffic on local roads and highways.

How Do Cargo Owners and Importers Benefit from Nighttime Container Moves?

For cargo owners and importers, participating in nighttime container moves offers several advantages. First and foremost, it reduces the likelihood of delays caused by congestion during peak hours. Trucks moving containers at night experience shorter wait times at marine terminal gates, leading to faster turnarounds and more predictable delivery schedules.

Additionally, nighttime operations often align with expedited processing times, allowing businesses to meet tight deadlines more effectively. By avoiding peak hours, importers can also minimize the risk of incurring additional costs associated with extended truck idling or missed appointments. Furthermore, contributing to reduced air pollution and improved air quality enhances the reputation of companies committed to sustainable practices, appealing to environmentally conscious consumers and partners.

What Are the Costs Associated with PierPass Fees Per TEU?

The PierPass fee, commonly referred to as the Traffic Mitigation Fee (TMF), is calculated on a per TEU basis. For a standard 20-foot container, the fee corresponds to one TEU, while a 40-foot container incurs charges equivalent to two TEUs. The exact amount varies depending on the specific terminal and prevailing market conditions but typically ranges from $30 to $70 per TEU under PierPass 2.0.

This fee is considered an added cost for shippers and importers; however, it is offset by the operational efficiencies gained through reduced congestion and faster processing times. Additionally, the Clean Truck Fund Rate, another destination charge applied at the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach, works alongside the TMF to support broader environmental and infrastructure initiatives. Understanding these costs helps businesses budget effectively and optimize their logistics strategies.

How Can Freight Forwarders Navigate the PierPass System Effectively?

Freight forwarders play a critical role in ensuring smooth navigation of the PierPass system for their clients. To do so effectively, they must stay informed about the latest updates to the program, including changes to fees and operating hours. Registering with PierPass Inc and integrating payment processes into their workflows is essential for compliance and avoiding disruptions at marine terminal gates.

Forwarders should also leverage technology to track container movements and schedule appointments during offpeak hours, maximizing the benefits of the program. By educating their clients about the advantages of nighttime container moves and helping them understand the fee structure, freight forwarders can enhance customer satisfaction while contributing to the broader goals of reducing congestion and improving air quality at the ports.

By embracing the PierPass system, businesses can contribute to a more efficient and sustainable supply chain while benefiting from reduced costs and improved operational performance.