Warehousing Unboxed: Inside the Port of Long Beach

On this episode of Warehousing Unboxed, we go behind the scenes at one of the most important trade gateways in North America—the Port of Long Beach.

We’re joined by Joel Perler, Manager of International Engagement & Strategic Advocacy in the Government Relations Division at the Port of Long Beach, for a concise and insightful 10–15 minute conversation. Joel breaks down how the port operates, the scale of cargo moving through its terminals, and the trends shaping port traffic in recent years.

Listeners will learn:

• How much cargo and vessel traffic the Port of Long Beach handles
• What types of goods move through the port
• What makes the Port of Long Beach unique compared to other ports
• Why shippers, logistics providers, and warehouse operators rely on it
• What to expect from the Port of Long Beach’s popular 90-minute boat tour
• Practical tips for anyone planning to take the tour

This episode ties directly into IWLA programming, as the Port of Long Beach tour is included with the IWLA Essentials of Warehousing event (January 27–30) and is also part of the IWLA California Chapter meeting on January 29.

January 29 Schedule Highlights:

• 11:00 a.m. – Noon: Legislative update from FJK and a California legislator (Hilton Long Beach)
• Noon – 12:30 p.m.: Lunch at Hilton Long Beach
• 12:30 – 1:00 p.m.: California Chapter members depart for the port
• 1:00 – 1:30 p.m.: Special speaker at the port
• 1:30 – 2:00 p.m.: Port of Long Beach preview with key port officials
• 2:00 – 3:30 p.m.: 90-minute Port of Long Beach boat tour

Whether you’re a warehouse operator, 3PL professional, or simply curious about how global trade flows through Southern California, this episode offers a clear, engaging look at the Port of Long Beach—and why it matters to the warehousing and logistics industry.

With Gen Z representing 35-40% of fulfillment workers and demanding modern technology experiences, industrial properties must evolve beyond traditional "four walls" thinking to accommodate new workforce expectations, or risk obsolescence in an increasingly competitive market.

Dan Salazar, Senior Vice President of Sales and Partnerships at Logiwa, joins J.C. to discuss how his organization is adapting to this changing landscape? Salazar explains why it is important that industrial properties recognize this demographic shift and provides a few tips to connect with Gen Z.

For more information about Logiwa, visit https://www.logiwa.com/.

In this episode of Warehousing Unboxed, we talk fire protection with Steve Kowkabany of The Vertex Companies, a leading expert in warehouse safety and compliance and Eric Byer, President & CEO of the Alliance for Chemical Distribution (ACD).

Steve shares the most common challenges warehouses face—from sprinkler protection to PFAS foam replacement—and how operators can address them. Learn practical steps to safeguard your facility, meet code requirements, and prepare for emerging risks in modern warehousing.

Eric discusses partnerships with Vertex Companies and IWLA.

For more information, visit: https://www.auditsafetyknow.com/