U.S. container ports posted notable year-over-year gains in April 2025, signaling strong economic activity and a rush by importers to beat upcoming tariff deadlines. While this surge showcases resilience across the supply chain, port authorities are forecasting potential slowdowns in the months ahead as global trade adjusts to shifting policies.
Port of Los Angeles: Steady Growth Amid Tariff Concerns
The Port of Los Angeles handled 842,806 TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units) in April, marking a 9.4% increase from the same period in 2024. This growth represents the 19th increase in the last 21 months, with year-to-date volumes rising 6.2% to 3.35 million TEUs.
“A strong economy and high consumer confidence propelled that growth early on, while more recently it’s been the push by importers to bring cargo in ahead of today’s tariffs,” said Gene Seroka, Executive Director of the Port of Los Angeles.
Port of Long Beach: Record-Setting Month
April was the strongest on record for the Port of Long Beach, with container throughput jumping 15.6% to 867,493 units. This marked the 11th consecutive month of year-over-year growth, pushing volumes up 23.6% year-to-date.
Despite this momentum, CEO Mario Cordero warned of a potential 10% drop in May imports, citing tariff-related disruptions that could lead to reduced product variety and rising retail prices.
Port of Oakland: Small Decline Amid Export Slowdown
The Port of Oakland recorded a 1.7% decrease, processing 185,499 containers in April. This dip was driven by softening export demand and uncertainty stemming from recent trade policy changes. Still, year-to-date totals rose 4.3% to 787,028 containers.
“We anticipate similar volume in May with a strong recovery in June,” said Bryan Brandes, Maritime Director at the Port of Oakland.
Northwest Seaport Alliance: Continued Growth
Combined container volumes for the Ports of Seattle and Tacoma under the Northwest Seaport Alliance increased 7.4% to 277,828 units in April. Full international imports rose 8.8%, contributing to 14 consecutive months of growth in this category.
Port Houston: April Volume Breaks Records
Port Houston achieved a record-breaking April, moving 387,478 containers, a 19.5% increase from 2024. With volumes also up 4% year-to-date (totaling 1.46 million), the port continues to outperform historical benchmarks.
“Houston has long been a growth market,” said Charlie Jenkins, CEO of Port Houston. “Our long-term trajectory remains strong.”
Georgia Ports: Surge in Southeast Shipping
The Georgia Ports Authority reported its busiest April ever, with container volumes climbing 16.9% to 515,500 units. The Port of Savannah led the charge with a 17% increase, while the Appalachian Regional Port saw a record 4,241 lifts.
“Manufacturers, retailers, and agribusiness continue to choose Georgia’s ports to serve customers across the Southeast and the world,” noted GPA President Griff Lynch.
South Carolina Ports: Stable Volume With Rail Growth
South Carolina Ports reported stable volumes, with a modest 0.3% increase to 215,804 containers. While maritime growth plateaued, rail cargo continued to perform well.
“We have available chassis, trucking capacity, and rail connections to further speed goods to market,” said Barbara Melvin, CEO of SC Ports.
Port of New York and New Jersey: Upward Momentum
The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey logged a 6% year-over-year increase, reaching 751,194 TEUs. The port continues to play a vital role in connecting the Northeast to global markets.
Port of Baltimore: April Data Not Yet Available
While the Port of Baltimore did not release its April statistics, its contribution to East Coast logistics remains significant.
Final Thoughts:
April 2025 was a landmark month for U.S. port activity, with importers fast-tracking shipments in anticipation of increased tariffs. While the near-term outlook includes some caution due to market uncertainty, the overall strength of U.S. port infrastructure and diversified gateways positions the nation well for continued supply chain resilience.
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