In July 2024, Port Houston experienced a 5% decline in container volume compared to the same month last year, handling 325,277 TEUs.
The month presented challenges due to Hurricane Beryl and a global system outage that briefly disrupted operations. Despite this, year-to-date container volumes have risen by 10%, totalling 2,423,474 TEUs, with the port gearing up for a strong peak season.
Loaded imports have increased by 9% year-to-date, surpassing 1 million TEUs, driven by strong consumer demand and the establishment of new import distribution centres in the area, as importers adjust their networks to route more volume through Houston. Loaded exports have also grown by 12% year-to-date, largely due to the thriving resin market.
Furthermore, Port Houston remains the leading U.S. gateway for resin exports, holding a 60% market share. While both loaded imports and exports dipped slightly in July, overall container volumes have risen 10% year-to-date, bolstered by increased trade with the Caribbean, South America, and East Asia. Additionally, empty container volumes are up 10% as ocean carriers reposition containers for incoming cargo.
Port Houston’s commitment to growth is underscored by ongoing infrastructure investments, including the addition of three new ship-to-shore (STS) cranes to its fleet at the Bayport Container Terminal later this month. These cranes will enhance the capacity and efficiency of Wharf 6 and Wharf 2 at Bayport.
In contrast, steel volumes at Port Houston’s multipurpose facilities dropped by 14% in July compared to July 2023 and are down 9% year-to-date. General cargo has also decreased by 12% year-to-date, though specific categories such as plywood, wind power equipment, and wood/fiberboard have seen increases. Despite these declines, total tonnage across all facilities has risen by 3% year-to-date, reaching 30,888,040 tons.
“Our double-digit growth so far this year underscores Port Houston’s resilience and strategic significance in the global supply chain and we are expecting a strong third quarter as well. Locally we faced some challenges this month, but our team excelled at rebounding quickly and maintaining the first-rate customer service Port Houston is known for. I’m immensely proud of our team and as I transition into retirement at the end of this month, I am certain the Port will continue its successful trajectory for many years to come,” stated said Roger Guenther, Executive Director at Port Houston.
