Port of Oakland March container volume grows

Full imports and exports close first quarter strong

Oakland, Calif. – August 24, 2024: The Port of Oakland (Port) March container volume continues to signal the Port’s cargo growth.

In March, 202,816 TEUs (twenty-foot containers) passed through Port facilities, marking a 19.1% increase over March 2023 volume.

Ship at Port of Oakland dock loaded with containers

Full imports at the Oakland Seaport continued to rise for the fifth month in a row, registering a 38.4% increase compared to March 2023. Port operators processed 83,483 full inbound TEUs in March 2024, in contrast to 60,311 full import TEUs in March 2023, reaching their highest volume since August 2022. Rising incomes and rising net worth among consumers in major Northern California markets are credited with supporting import growth.

Full exports grew for the fourth month in a row, boasting a 14.8% increase compared to March 2023, transiting 75,352 TEUs in March 2024, versus 65,635 TEUs in March 2023. This is the highest monthly total for full outbound cargo at Oakland since April 2021.

“I am encouraged that the positive cargo trends we are seeing in 2024 continue,” said Port of Oakland Maritime Director Bryan Brandes. “A strong economy and the need for retailers to replenish stock in their warehouses are driving import cargo activity today.”

Empty imports rose 11.9%, registering 20,254 TEUs in March 2024, compared to 18,097 TEUs in March 2023. Empty exports also declined 9.5%, transiting 23,728 TEUs in February 2024, versus 26,225 TEUs in March 2023.

See the Port of Oakland’s Facts & Figures page HERE

About the Port of Oakland 

The Port of Oakland generates vital economic activity, community benefits and environmental innovation, as the Port decarbonizes its operations for a cleaner and greener future. Along with its partners, the Port supports 98,345 jobs in the region and $174 billion in annual economic activity. The Port oversees Oakland International Airport, the Oakland Seaport and nearly 20 miles of waterfront including Jack London Square, and a publicly owned utility. The Port of Oakland is Everyone’s Port! Connect with the Port of Oakland and Oakland International Airport through Facebook and Twitter, or with the Port on LinkedIn, YouTube, and at www.portofoakland.com.  

Media Contacts 

Robert Bernardo
Port of Oakland
Communications Director 
(510) 627-1401
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Marilyn Sandifur
Port of Oakland
Communications Manager
(510) 627-1193
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David DeWitt
Port of Oakland
Communications Manager
(510) 627-1193
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