Port of Oakland container volume continues to grow anticipating strong 4th quarter

The Port of Oakland’s loaded container volume recorded a 7% increase in September 2024, compared to the same time last year. For the second month, loaded imports experienced double digit growth. Port operators recorded 10.4% growth, handling 82,180 TEUs (twenty-foot containers) in September 2024, compared to 74,428 TEUs in September 2023. Loaded exports rose 2.9% year over year. Port operators processed 61,466 TEUs in September 2024, versus 59,757 TEUs in September 2023.

“Oakland has benefited from a final push by importers wanting to ensure supplies for the holiday season,” said Port of Oakland Maritime Director Bryan Brandes. “We expect to have a strong fourth quarter for container volume because it’s also harvest time. We are seeing more agricultural exports going to overseas markets.”

The Port of Oakland is the preferred export gateway for much of California’s agricultural products, due in part to its proximity to the Central Valley farming region. The Port ranks number one by TEU volume in refrigerated export trade among United States ports.

Empty imports rose 13.2%, with 12,692 TEUs passing through Port facilities in September 2024, compared to 11,208 TEUs in September 2023. Empty exports increased 33.7%, with 35,337 TEUs transiting Port facilities in September 2024, compared to 26,429 TEUs in September 2023.