The Port of Houston has marked a new monthly record for September, handling 254,400TEU, which is a 1% increase on the previous record in the same month last year.
Despite the negative effects of the Covid-19 pandemic, which has caused a 3% deterioration in the yearly volumes at the port, September volumes were positive, while it was the first turn toward growth since the effects of the virus in March.
“Although resin exports were soft due to supply chain disruptions caused by hurricane activity in the East Texas/Louisiana border area, overall container numbers are gaining strength, especially on the import side,” said port’s executive director, Roger Guenther.
The strong showing last month was achieved despite the closure of the Houston Ship Channel for about three days due to Tropical Storm Beta, though Port Houston’s terminal operations remained open to continue serving customers, according to the announcement.
“We’ve had a solid import peak season with retailers bringing in product from overseas in
strong numbers,” noted Guenther, who went on to add, “Our fundamentals are strong with a solid base of exports and a surge in construction activity of import warehouses and distribution centers. We in turn are investing heavily in infrastructure and people to ensure we have the necessary capacity and labor to support our growing customer base.”
“We are optimistic that a rebound in container volumes is underway and that it will continue for the remainder of the year and into 2021,” he said.
