The Port of Oakland’s October export container throughput has reached its highest level in any single month in 2023.
Full export TEU increased 4 per cent in October 2023 compared to October 2022, reaching 68,974 TEU.
The fading of supply chain congestion caused by pandemic-related disruptions continues to bring exporters back, said the port in its latest statement.
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Port of Oakland Maritime Director Bryan Brandes, said: “Our port remains the preferred export gateway for fruits, nuts, meats, and grains since we are the closest to agricultural areas in the Central Valley.
“We also offer the fastest transit times to Asia since we are the last port of call in the US before ships go back across the Pacific.”
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The Port of Oakland’s full imports are down 8 per cent in October 2023 against October 2022. Import levels appear to have levelled off at roughly 70,000 TEU per month.
According to the port, nationwide consumer spending has slowed, however, consumer spending in Northern California reportedly remains high. Nevertheless, it has dipped slightly from its peak during the pandemic.
“Import growth is expected to remain flat as traffic continues to stabilize after the significant spikes we saw during the pandemic years,” added Brandes.
“Shipping rates remain low and carriers are signalling that will remain well into 2024.”
In October, the Port of Oakland’s September container volumes remained consistent with volumes throughout 2023.
