Friday, August 23, 2024 The Port of Oakland has recorded steady growth in its container volume, with recent data showing a 2.4% increase in full container volume, including both imports and exports, compared to July 2023. This positive trend highlights the port’s resilience and importance as a key player in international trade.
A significant driver of this growth is the surge in import activity. Over the last six months, the volume of full imports has risen by a notable 18.8% compared to the same period last year.
This surge underscores the port’s ability to efficiently manage and accommodate growing demand, thanks to its strategic improvements in infrastructure and operations. Looking ahead, the Port of Oakland remains focused on maintaining this momentum by optimizing its operations and expanding its capacity to handle even greater volumes. The port’s commitment to sustainability and its role in facilitating the flow of goods on a global scale position it as a crucial component of the broader economic recovery.
As consumer demand continues to strengthen and supply chain challenges are addressed, the Port of Oakland is poised to play an even more significant role in supporting both regional and international trade, ensuring the resilience of global supply chains. “We are encouraged that demand for imports is steadily increasing and anticipate the remainder of the year to be strong,” said Port of Oakland Maritime Director Bryan Brandes. “This growth reflects an influx of back-to-school and holiday goods across our docks.
” From February through July 2024, the Port handled 478,762 TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units), up from 403,801 TEUs during the same period in 2023. Full imports saw a year-over-year increase of 2.6%.
In July 2024, the Port managed 80,135 TEUs, compared to 78,122 TEUs in July 2023, reflecting robust import demand as indicated by freight rates and feedback from importers. Full exports increased by 2.2%, totaling 59,362 TEUs in July 2024, up from 58,059 TEUs in July 2023.
There was a 25.1% decline in empty imports, with 10,627 TEUs moving through Port facilities in July 2024, down from 14,196 TEUs in July 2023. Conversely, empty exports rose by 10.
1%, with 34,343 TEUs leaving the Port in July 2024, compared to 31,179 TEUs in July 2023. Overall cargo volumes experienced a slight reduction, attributed to a few canceled or blank sailings in July 2024, which led to a decreased number of vessel calls at the Port of Oakland..
