Alameda County
Port of Oakland September Cargo Volumes Dip Amid Shifting Trade Patterns
Year-to-date through September, Oakland marine terminals processed 1.72 million TEUs, up 0.7% compared to the same period last year. Full imports rose 1.6%, and full exports were up 0.5%, reflecting stable performance amid tariff-related volatility in global markets.
By Post Staff
The Port of Oakland handled 178,942 twenty-foot containers (TEUs) in September 2025, a 6.6% decline year-over-year and 7% below August volumes. Port officials said the decrease reflects market adjustments tied to tariff uncertainty and shifting global trade flows rather than the usual seasonal trends.
Full imports totaled 75,716 TEUs, down 7.9% from September 2024, while full exports reached 60,123 TEUs, a 2.2% decrease. Despite these short-term dips, overall trade flows remained balanced, supported by steady vessel calls and efficient terminal operations.
Year-to-date through September, Oakland marine terminals processed 1.72 million TEUs, up 0.7% compared to the same period last year. Full imports rose 1.6%, and full exports were up 0.5%, reflecting stable performance amid tariff-related volatility in global markets.
The Port recorded 82 vessel calls in September compared with 90 a year ago. However, average vessel utilization climbed to 2,193 TEUs per call, up 1.8%, signaling continued deployment of larger ships and operational efficiency across terminals.
“While trade patterns are shifting in response to global tariff uncertainty, Oakland continues to demonstrate stability and resilience,” said Bryan Brandes, Port of Oakland maritime director. “We’re seeing larger ships and steady year-to-date growth, which reflects the confidence carriers and cargo owners have in Oakland’s long-term position as a key gateway for U.S. trade.”
Port officials said the September slowdown reflects changes in how cargo is moving through global supply chains. Some importers accelerated shipments earlier in the year to avoid potential tariff impacts, which reduced typical fall peak activity. On the export side, California’s agricultural and refrigerated shippers continue to manage softer overseas demand and cost pressures tied to tariffs.
“The Port of Oakland remains focused on long-term infrastructure investment and achieving our sustainability goals,” said Port Executive Director Kristi McKenney. “Even in months when global market conditions fluctuate, we’re building the infrastructure and partnerships that ensure Oakland stays competitive and continues to serve our regional economy and support the nearly 100,000 jobs that the Port of Oakland creates.”
