Long Beach is superior for import-heavy brands that need high-velocity turnover and lower drayage costs. The Inland Empire is better for brands that require massive storage footprints (100k+ sq. ft.) and lower rent-per-pallet. If your business model relies on "just-in-time" inventory, Long Beach is the strategic winner.

In 2026, drayage rates for a "local pull" (within 10-15 miles of the port) typically range from $250 to $500 per container, excluding fuel surcharges and port fees. By using a 3PL in Long Beach rather than Ontario or Riverside, brands can save $400–$800 per container in drayage alone.

Yes. Many 3PLs in the Long Beach area operate within or near FTZ #50. This allows brands to defer, reduce, or eliminate customs duties on imported goods until they leave the warehouse for domestic sale, providing a massive cash-flow advantage for international importers.

Absolutely. Because Long Beach is the entry point for most Amazon-bound freight from Asia, local 3PLs are highly specialized in FBA Prep and labeling. They can often get your inventory "live" in the Amazon network faster by draying containers directly to nearby Amazon Sort Centers in Southern California.

If you ship heavy goods (liquids, machinery, or bulk consumer goods), you can pack your ocean containers to their maximum weight limit. 3PLs located in the Long Beach Overweight Corridor can legally receive these containers, allowing you to ship more product per container and reducing your ocean freight spend by up to 20%.