Containerized Imports Up at Port of Oakland

Port of Oakland
Port of Oakland
Image via Port of Oakland.

The Port of Oakland moved 8.3% more imports last month than it did the same time a year ago, handling 83,860 TEUs in January, according to new data released by the port Feb. 23.

The news follows a record year for the port set in 2021 when it moved one million imported containers. The port credits the solid numbers to strong U.S. consumer spending and with shippers rushing to send their products in anticipation of the Lunar New Year in February, when factories are closed in observation of the holiday.

“As imports rise nationwide, Oakland continues to play a key role in strengthening the global supply chain,” said Port Maritime Director Bryan Brandes. “We’re also working closely with federal, state and industry partners to boost exports that include agricultural commodities as well.”

Import numbers are up despite a 14% decrease year-over-year in the number of container vessels coming to Oakland, which the port attributes to ocean carriers loading more boxes on fewer vessels and sailing delays at Southern California seaports that forced them to divert away from Oakland.

Fewer ships led to a 10.8% decrease in exports last month because exporters were unable to find enough space on ships to send their goods overseas, according to the port.

By Karen Robes Meeks