Port of Oakland Handled 173,818 Containers in August
The shipping hub processed a mix of loaded and empty cargo containers during the month of August 2026.
Updated on Sept. 23, 2026 in Transportation
In August 2026, the Port of Oakland managed 173,818 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) of cargo. This volume included 131,666 TEUs of loaded cargo alongside 42,152 TEUs of empty containers.
Why it matters
Understanding cargo volume at the Port of Oakland provides insight into regional maritime activity and trade patterns. Tracking these fluctuations helps measure the flow of goods through one of the city's critical economic gateways.
The port recorded 131,666 TEUs of loaded cargo, contributing to a 2.9 percent increase in full exports compared to July 2026. Year-to-date loaded cargo remains 2.5 percent lower than the same period last year.
The players
Port of Oakland
The Port of Oakland serves as a major West Coast maritime facility responsible for shipping and logistical operations in Northern California.
The details
Operational metrics for the month show 82 vessel calls, a decrease from the 90 calls recorded in August 2025. Loaded cargo volume saw a 9.0 percent year-over-year decrease, while empty container volume dropped 11.4 percent over the same annual period.
Timeline
August 2025 saw the Port of Oakland host 90 vessel calls.
July 2026 served as the baseline month for export growth analysis.
August 2026 marked the period in which 173,818 TEUs were handled.
Market Landscape
These figures track with the broader regional shift in maritime throughput across California's major shipping hubs. The data updates the performance benchmarks established by the Port of Oakland's 2026 year-to-date cargo volume metrics.
Local residents and businesses may notice changes in regional trade activity or port-related logistics in the area. Fluctuations in port volume can influence the availability and cost of goods transported through the Oakland facility.
The takeaway
The port remains a primary indicator of Northern California's import and export health. Monitoring these monthly volume reports helps stakeholders anticipate shifts in regional supply chain stability.
Further reading
For more on local logistics, explore the latest updates in Oakland Transportation.
