Port of Oakland Container Volume Rose in September

The Port of Oakland processed 188,517 total TEUs during September 2026, marking a 5.4 percent increase from last year.

Updated on Oct. 13, 2026 in Transportation

A large steel gantry crane looms over stacks of colorful shipping containers at a busy, industrial maritime terminal. — The Port of Oakland processed over 188,000 TEUs in September 2026, a 5.4 percent increase driven by gains in both imports and exports. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Live Poll

Do you believe the recent increase in port activity signals a strengthening national economy?

In September 2026, the Port of Oakland saw its total container volume rise to 188,517 TEUs. This performance reflects a 5.4 percent increase compared to the same period in September 2025.

Why it matters

The rise in total volume was fueled by gains in both imports and exports, signaling a robust shift in cargo movement through the facility. This growth helps reverse the trend of declining import volumes that were recorded in July and August 2026.

Loaded imports reached 82,975 TEUs, a 9.6 percent increase year over year, while loaded exports hit 63,299 TEUs. The Port also recorded 88 vessel calls during the month.

The players

Port of Oakland

This facility serves as the primary maritime hub for Northern California and a critical gateway for international trade.

The details

The facility handled a total of 146,274 TEUs in combined loaded cargo throughout September. Empty container volume reached 42,243 TEUs, contributing to the overall traffic increase observed across the port.

September 2025 served as the comparison baseline for monthly TEU volume.
July 2026 recorded a decline in loaded imports.
August 2026 recorded a decline in loaded imports.
September 2026 marked the handling of 188,517 total TEUs.
The first nine months of 2026 saw the port handle 1,656,999 total TEUs.

Market Landscape

This rebound illustrates the volatility currently facing major coastal shipping hubs as they navigate fluctuating trade demands. The growth positions the port more effectively against broader regional competitive pressures seen in the mid-third quarter.

Increased container volume typically leads to higher throughput for local logistics and trucking companies operating near the port. For the average resident, the activity indicates a consistent flow of goods through the regional supply chain.

The takeaway

The return to growth in September suggests that recent supply chain bottlenecks or demand lulls may be easing. Monitoring future monthly reports will clarify if this increase represents a sustained recovery or a temporary seasonal fluctuation.