Port of Oakland moves 182,879 TEUs in October as loaded cargo remains strong

The Port of Oakland handled 182,879 twenty-foot containers (TEUs) in October 2025, marking a 2.2 percent increase compared to September 2025. The month-to-month gain reflects steady full-container activity as global shipping continues to rebalance.

Full container cargo remained resilient, with full imports up 0.9 percent year-over-year and full exports down just 0.7 percent. The overall 5.5 percent drop in annual volume was mainly because we moved far fewer empty containers this October. That reflects changes in how shipping lines are managing their equipment – not a slowdown in cargo demand.

“Full imports and exports are holding their ground despite the headwinds,” said Port of Oakland Maritime Director Bryan Brandes. “The modest month-over-month increase shows cargo flow through Oakland remains steady heading into the holiday season. While we’re seeing fewer empty containers move through the system, that’s just part of the broader market adjustment.”

The Port recorded 86 vessel calls in October, down 6.5 percent year-over-year, consistent with ocean carriers’ ongoing schedule and service network adjustments.

“Cargo owners and ocean carriers remain cautious,” added Brandes. “Trade flows are adapting to new sourcing patterns and shifting global demand, but Oakland continues to perform steadily in our core full-container business.”

As global supply chains continue to evolve, the Port of Oakland remains focused on operational efficiency, infrastructure investments, and collaboration with terminal operators and shippers to ensure reliable cargo movement across the U.S. West Coast.

October 2025 Container Statistics:

• Total TEUs: 182,879 (-5.5% YoY, +2.2% MoM)
• Full Imports: 82,195 (+0.9% YoY, +8.6% MoM)
• Full Exports: 66,195 (-0.7% YoY, -20.0% MoM)
• Empty Containers: 34,489 (-24.1% YoY, +4.9% MoM)
• Vessel Calls: 86 (-6.5% YoY, +4.9% MoM)