Traffic at the Port of Los Angeles increased 17 percent in November compared to the same month last year, according to figures released Monday.

About 684,000 containers moved through the port last month. Imports were up nearly 19 percent, and exports jumped 23 percent, compared to the same period a year ago. The number of empties, containers sent overseas empty to be refilled with goods, increased 8.7 percent.

The port said the increase was partly due to larger vessels calling and the improved U.S. economy.