An export rebound continues to build steam at the Port of Oakland. The Port said on Friday (May 6) that containerized export volume increased 7 percent last month from a year ago. It was the fourth consecutive month of increases in Oakland.
The Port said that 2016 export volume is up 16.3 percent through April. That’s welcome news following a 2015 decline that saw Oakland exports drop 11.5 percent. The Port attributed export gains to a weaker dollar that makes U.S. goods more affordable overseas.
“We’re pleased to see export volume growing,” said Port Maritime Director John Driscoll. “It’s a sign that business is picking up for our customers.”
The Port said it has shipped the equivalent of 300,000 20-foot export containers so far this year. By comparison, it reported receiving the equivalent of 277,000 20-foot import boxes. The contrast reflects Oakland’s status as a leading U.S. export gateway. Most American ports handle more imports than exports.
Total cargo volume in Oakland – imports, exports and empty containers – declined 6.3 percent in April, the Port said. That was due primarily to a near 30 percent drop in empty container shipments. For the year, Oakland’s total cargo volume is up 11.3 percent.
Click here to see Port of Oakland 2016 cargo volume statistics.
Source: Port of Oakland