Port of Oakland’s largest terminal tests night, Saturday hours

Harbor truckers can avoid daytime peak for some transactions

Oakland, CA – November 25, 2015: A Port of Oakland marine terminal is opening on certain nights and Saturday’s in an experiment to accelerate containerized trade flow.  The trial-basis program precedes a port wide plan for Saturday operations expected in the first quarter of 2016.

Oakland International Container Terminal (OICT) – the Port’s largest terminal – said it’s testing increased hours of operations for specific transactions. So far, extended gate transactions have included empty container returns and pick-ups and loaded container export drop-offs. Specialized import pick-ups known as One Stop free-flow delivery have also been part of the trial program.

“This is a service for all customers and drayage companies that can utilize the transactions,” said Jim Rice, the terminal’s General Manager. “We know this may not fit everyone’s business needs, but it has a positive impact on the overall flow of transactions during the day. We will continue to operate night and weekend gates if the demand is there.”

Drivers receive weekly broadcasts from the terminal advising them of the dates and times for the extended gates. Transaction types may vary depending on the demand. The terminal said it has seen increased participation since it began Nov. 3.

The Port of Oakland has the highest concentration of truck transactions-per-gate at any West Coast Port. During some peak periods, terminals report long lines of trucks waiting to enter. The marine terminals are working on a collaborative plan to open permanent Saturday gates for all transactions in 2016. The plan is under review by the Federal Maritime Commission.