In the previous month, the Port of Oakland saw a significant uptick in container volume, with 202,816 TEUs passing through its facilities, marking a 19.1% increase compared to March 2023.
Import activity at the Oakland Seaport continued its upward trajectory for the fifth consecutive month, with a notable 38.4% surge compared to March 2023. Port operators handled 83,483 full inbound TEUs in March 2024, the highest volume recorded since August 2022. This growth is attributed to increasing incomes and net worth among consumers in major Northern California markets, bolstering import demand.
Meanwhile, full exports experienced their fourth consecutive month of growth, boasting a 14.8% increase compared to March 2023. A total of 75,352 TEUs were moved in March 2024, marking the highest monthly total for full outbound cargo at Oakland since April 2021.
In addition, empty imports experienced an 11.9% increase, reaching 20,254 TEUs in March 2024, up from 18,097 TEUs in March 2023. Conversely, empty exports declined by 9.5%, with 23,728 TEUs moved in February 2024, compared to 26,225 TEUs in March 2023.
“I am encouraged that the positive cargo trends we are seeing in 2024 continue. A strong economy and the need for retailers to replenish stock in their warehouses are driving import cargo activity today,” commented Bryan Brandes, maritime director of Port of Oakland.