Port of Oakland remains preferred gateway for refrigerated export cargo in 2023

Oakland, Calif. – February 21, 2024: The Port of Oakland is a refrigerated cargo powerhouse. It ranks number one by TEU (twenty-foot container) volume in refrigerated (reefer) export trade among United States (US) ports. Oakland has ranked first among all US ports in international reefer export TEU’s for seven consecutive years. 

The total commercial value of reefer exports through Oakland reached $7.1 billion in 2023.

“The Port and its partners have made significant investments in state-of-the-art, temperature-controlled facilities over the past seven years, including Cool Port, PCC Logistics and Custom Goods,” said Port of Oakland Maritime Director Bryan Brandes. “With this additional cargo capacity and value-added services, we have been able to consistently attract the reefer export business.” 

The Port of Oakland is a premier export gateway for refrigerated products, due in part to its central location on the US West Coast. The Port is often the last US port of call for container ships before they set sail for Asia. Therefore, refrigerated cargo can arrive fresher to overseas markets by leaving from Oakland.  

In 2023, the Port of Oakland’s reefer export volumes increased by 4%, while total US volumes for temperature-sensitive exports declined by 20%. The Port increased its overall market share of reefer exports by 4.1%, from 14.2% to 18.3%.  

Top reefer commodities exported from the Port are beef, pork, fruits, dairy products, and vegetables.  

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.

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