Port of Oakland cargo volume rises in May as imports and exports grow

The Port of Oakland handled 190,958 TEUs (twenty-foot containers) in May 2026, a 1.9% increase over May 2025. This was Port's highest monthly cargo volume since January 2026.

Growth was driven by increases in both import and export cargo. Full imports reached 83,809 TEUs, up 5.7% from the same month last year, while full exports totaled 69,284 TEUs, a 2.9% increase. Total loaded volume climbed 4.4% year-over-year to 153,093 TEUs, showing continued growth.

"May marked the second consecutive month of year-over-year growth in total volume, with gains in both full imports and full exports contributing to the month's performance," said Bryan Brandes, Port of Oakland Maritime Director. "The start of a new transpacific vessel service during the month added capacity and strengthened connectivity for cargo moving through Oakland."

May volume increased 3.5% from April, when the Port handled 184,492 TEUs. Vessel calls also rose from 79 in April to 88 in May.

The Port's import growth reflects continued consumer demand and inventory replenishment activity, while export gains underscore ongoing demand for Northern California agricultural products and other U.S. exports moving through Oakland.
Through the first five months of 2026, the Port processed 933,309 TEUs, down 4.2% compared to the same period in 2025. Full exports increased 0.5% year-to-date, while total loaded cargo volume declined 1.4%.

Recent cargo trends have shown signs of improvement. The Port has recorded two consecutive months of year-over-year growth and achieved its strongest monthly volume since the start of the year.

May 2026 Highlights

• Total TEUs: 190,958, up 1.9% year-over-year
• Full Imports: 83,809 TEUs, up 5.7%
• Full Exports: 69,284 TEUs, up 2.9%
• Loaded Volume: 153,093 TEUs, up 4.4%
• Imports (including empties): 94,975 TEUs
• Exports (including empties): 95,983 TEUs
• Vessel Calls: 88
• Year-to-Date Volume: 933,309 TEUs, down 4.2%