U.S. Ports Report Record Growth and Prepare for Future Expansion

U.S. Ports posted record growth in November 2024, driven by rising consumer demand and infrastructure improvements. Ports across the country reported higher cargo volumes, showcasing resilience amid global shipping challenges. This was reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Port of Los Angeles Achieves Milestone Growth

U.S. Ports continued reporting year-over-year volume growth, with the Port of Los Angeles handling 884,315 TEUs. This marks a 16% increase compared to the 763,261 units processed in November 2023.

The port remains 19% ahead year-to-date, processing 9,375,735 TEUs so far in 2024. It expects to surpass 10 million units this year, an accomplishment seen only once before.

Don’t miss…Amtrak Supports David Fink’s Nomination as FRA Administrator

Gene Seroka, Executive Director at the Port of Los Angeles, attributed success to teamwork and operational efficiency. He praised dockworkers, truck drivers, and rail partners for helping achieve this milestone.

Port of Long Beach Sets New Cargo Records

The Port of Long Beach experienced its busiest November ever, moving 884,154 TEUs, a 20.9% increase over last year’s 731,033 units. This also set a new monthly record, surpassing highs from November 2020.

Port CEO Mario Cordero emphasized that strong consumer demand and operational efficiency supported this performance. He reaffirmed the port’s commitment to handling rising volumes without disruptions.

Retailers continue choosing West Coast ports amid labor concerns affecting East and Gulf Coast facilities. The Port of Long Beach remains prepared to meet demand as 2024 approaches its end.

Pacific Northwest Ports Show Strong Growth Trends

Seattle and Tacoma, under the Northwest Seaport Alliance, saw cargo volumes rise 25.7% to 290,210 TEUs in November. International shipments increased 32.9%, compensating for a 1.2% decline in domestic cargo.

Officials credited infrastructure improvements for driving growth, emphasizing the need for ongoing upgrades. Enhanced facilities have positioned these ports to manage growing trade volumes effectively.

South Carolina Ports Invest in Rail Infrastructure

The South Carolina Ports Authority processed 211,443 TEUs, reflecting a 5% rise from last year’s 201,314 units. Expanded intermodal connections supported this growth, boosting cargo-handling capabilities.

Barbara Melvin, CEO of South Carolina Ports, highlighted rail system upgrades, including 9,000 feet of new tracks. These enhancements enable longer trains and double container yard capacity, improving efficiency.

Port Houston Posts Record Cargo Volumes

Port Houston reported a 24% volume increase, processing 369,361 TEUs compared to 297,622 units last November. Growth resulted from higher imports of consumer goods and machinery shipments.

Resin exports also fueled performance, helping the port reach its highest monthly volume this year. Through November, total container handling grew 9%, hitting 3,799,573 TEUs.

CEO Charlie Jenkins described 2024 as a banner year for Port Houston. He credited strategic investments and operational excellence for setting records and supporting future growth.

Final Insights on U.S. Ports’ Performance

While data from the Port of Oakland, Georgia Ports Authority, and other ports remain pending, U.S. Ports continue posting strong results. Record cargo volumes and infrastructure investments highlight their growth strategies.

Looking ahead, U.S. Ports remain focused on expanding capacity, improving logistics, and supporting global trade demands. With rising volumes and enhanced infrastructure, they are prepared for continued success in 2025.

Source: www.ttnews.com

News on railway transport, industry, and railway technologies from Railway Supply that you might have missed:

Don’t miss…Amtrak Service Disruptions Cause Delays and Cancellations on Northeast Corridor