Port of Oakland box volumes remain subpar

The Port of Oakland’s total loaded container volume dropped by 8 per cent in August compared to August 2021.

Last month 155,682 loaded TEU transited the port, compared to 169,602 TEU in August 2021.

Loaded imports declined by 10.2 per cent recording 87,844 TEU last month compared to 97,850 TEU in August 2021.

Loaded export containers experienced a 5.5 per cent decline, with 67,838 TEU passing through the port in August compared to 71,753 TEU in August 2021.

Full imports in 2022 year-to-date were down by 5 per cent compared to the first 8 months of 2021.

“We’re beginning to see signs of supply chain recovery after multi-year pandemic-related congestion, but we still have a way to go,” said Port of Oakland Maritime Director Bryan Brandes.

“We will continue working with our industry partners to boost cargo fluidity and vessel service.”

The port experienced declining volumes in April and June also.

Freight rates for cargo shipped from Asia to the US continue to drop pointing to a softening in demand for imports, the Oakland release added.

Continued congestion at container yards may still be a factor in ship delays at the Oakland Seaport, with most docked vessels staying two or more days.

In late August the White House Port and Supply Chain Envoy visited the Port of Oakland to address ongoing supply chain issues in the US.

Also in August the Port of Oakland has announced the approval of a $2 million contract for the design of a new, clean energy project at the Oakland Seaport.