Port of Melbourne stays afloat through peak season

The Port of Melbourne has seen strong volumes in August amid peak season.

August 2022 saw total container throughput (full and empty) up 9.5 per cent over August 2021 with a total of 284,487 TEU. 

Year to date container volumes are up 6.5 per cent.

Full overseas imports were increased by 11.2 per cent on August 2021 with strong trade flowing with the commencement of the traditional peak season, whilst full overseas container exports were up 8.2 per cent on August 2021.

Total empty container movements were 7.9 per cent above August 2021.

The port registered positive trade performance in most sectors compared to the same period last year, with the exception of dry bulk trade.

The news comes after container volumes at Australia’s largest container port have suffered since the beginning of this year.

Container trade for early September 2022 is tracking below the comparative month in 2021.

“Globally, congestion and delays are still being seen however schedule reliability globally continues to improve,” reads the port’s outlook statement.

“Container freight rates continued to decline during August, although still well above pre-pandemic levels. Trade volumes to Australia remain strong with vessel bunching and some congestion still being seen at several ports.

“Locally the supply chain remains resilient and we continue to monitor the situation throughout peak season and ahead of the traditional ‘Golden Week’ holidays.”

The Port of of Melbourne saw strong volumes in July as well, for a total container throughput (full and empty) up 3.7 per cent over July 2021 with a total of 285,561 TEU.