Port of Oakland has seen a double-digit increase in total container volumes during the first half of the year, while it is estimated that if the pace of container handling continues, the port would surpass 2.6 million TEU for the first time ever, by the end of the year.
More specifically, the Californian port handled 1.3 million TEU which translates to an 11.4% growth in comparison to the same period of 2020.
“We’ve never seen this level of activity and based on the outlook we’re preparing for more,” said Port of Oakland Maritime Director, Bryan Brandes.
According to the port, containerised import volume in Oakland has increased year-over-year for five consecutive months. In particular, the imports were up by 15% in June while exports had a slight growth of 0.8%, compared to the same month of the last year.
The port believes that the volume uptrend will continue based on three factors; the record freight rates charged by carriers, which show high demand for vessel space, the US inflation that indicates strong consumer spending on goods, and the upcoming peak season of August-November.
On average, vessels are loading and unloading 66% more cargo in Oakland than they did last year. One consequence has been cargo delivery delays, which are expected to be eased by late summer with the addition of more dockworkers, according to an announcement.
