Port of Oakland cargo remains steady in April despite fewer vessel calls

The Port of Oakland handled 184,492 TEUs (twenty-foot containers) in April, reflecting stable cargo activity despite fewer vessel arrivals during the month. April volume was down modestly from March's 198,667 TEUs; total vessel calls declined from 86 to 80, but cargo throughput continued to demonstrate resilience amid evolving global shipping patterns.

Imports totaled 91,805 TEUs in April while exports reached 92,687 TEUs, marking another month in which exports slightly exceeded imports. Total cargo volume for April was down 0.5 percent compared to April of last year. Full (loaded) imports totaled 78,822 TEUs in April, with full exports reaching 63,910 TEUs. Overall year-to-date cargo volume through April reached 742,351 TEUs, down 5.7 percent from the same period in 2025.

April's softer activity reflected a combination of fewer vessel calls, continued adjustments in carrier scheduling and vessel deployment, and typical month-to-month cargo fluctuations. Even with fewer vessel arrivals, cargo volumes remained comparatively stable, continuing a trend toward larger vessel exchanges and increased cargo movement per call.

“April's performance shows the underlying stability of Oakland's cargo base even as global shipping networks continue adjusting to changing market conditions,” said Port of Oakland Maritime Director Bryan Brandes. “Carriers continue optimizing vessel deployments and schedules, but Oakland remains a reliable gateway for importers, exporters and supply chain partners.”

Brandes said the Port continues to see stable cargo movement despite ongoing volatility across transpacific trade markets.

“Oakland's strength continues to be its diverse cargo mix and its role as a critical gateway for agricultural exports and Northern California commerce,” Brandes said. “That foundation continues to support cargo activity even as broader market conditions evolve.”

April 2026 cargo highlights
• Total TEUs: 184,492
• Imports: 91,805 TEUs
• Exports: 92,687 TEUs
• Full Imports: 78,882
• Full Exports: 63,910
• Total full: 142,792
• Vessel calls: 80
• Year-over-year volume: down 0.5%
• Year-to-date volume through April: 742,351 TEUs, down 5.7%