Port of Oakland Container Volume Down 10% in June

Port of Oakland (Source: Port of Oakland Authority)

The Port of Oakland experienced a notable decline in container traffic in June due to changing global trade dynamics and weaker demand.

Total volume fell 10.1% from May to 168,460 TEUs (20-foot equivalent units). Compared to the same period last year, volume also fell 12.8% from 193,158 TEUs in June 2024.

“This is not a seasonal dip, but a market recalibration,” said Bryan Brandes, director of maritime operations at the Port of Oakland, in a statement. “Importers and exporters are adjusting their supply chain timing and routing decisions in response to evolving conditions.”

Cumulative container throughput for the year remained steady, up 0.6% year-over-year to 1.14 million TEU.
 
However, this modest increase masked underlying changes within specific categories. Loaded imports, which accounted for 70,334 TEU, fell a significant 11.3% month-over-month and 16.3% year-over-year. It appears that importers are grappling with volatile trade policies and a slowdown in consumer demand.

Loaded exports were no better, down 1.3% year-over-year to 59,593 TEU – and down 10.3% month-over-month. This trend highlights the ongoing fragility of global markets, which continues to weigh on export activity.

Empty container imports increased by 0.6%, indicating that while inbound trade is slowing, the readiness for potential cargo movements remains stable. Empty container exports decreased by 13.1%, reflecting a decline in outbound shipments.

The decline in vessel calls in June further illustrates this trade shift, with 77 calls compared to 87 in May and 86 in June 2024. However, the 1.6% increase in average TEUs per vessel reflects the adaptation of carriers through consolidation, resulting in fewer but more fully loaded sailings. This adjustment in service schedules represents a strategic approach to optimizing efficiency in the face of broader trade uncertainties.

In related news, on July 10, the Board of Port Commissioners approved the Environmental Impact Assessment Report for the Turning Basin Expansion Project at the Port of Oakland, which will allow the Port of Oakland to handle larger container ships.

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Source: Phaata.com (According to Freight Waves)

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