The U.S. Shipping Container Ports Ranked Among the World’s Top 50

The United States is home to some of the world's busiest container ports, four of which—Los Angeles, Long Beach, Savannah, and Newark—rank among the top 50 globally, according to the World Shipping Council. These ports are pivotal to international trade, handling millions of twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) annually and serving as critical gateways for goods entering and leaving the country.

Port of Los Angeles: America's Busiest Container Port

Located in San Pedro Bay, the Port of Los Angeles stands as the busiest container port in the United States. In 2024, it processed approximately 10.3 million TEUs, marking a significant milestone in its operational history . This port serves as a primary entry point for goods from Asia, particularly China, and plays a crucial role in the U.S. supply chain.

However, recent trade tensions have impacted its operations. The imposition of tariffs on Chinese goods led to a noticeable decline in cargo volumes, with a reported 35% drop in shipments from China . Despite these challenges, the port continues to adapt, focusing on infrastructure improvements and technological advancements to enhance efficiency and resilience.

Port of Long Beach: A Record-Setting Year

Adjacent to the Port of Los Angeles, the Port of Long Beach is another critical hub in the U.S. maritime landscape. In 2024, it achieved a record by handling 9.6 million TEUs, reflecting a 20.3% increase from the previous year . This growth underscores the port's strategic importance and its capacity to handle increasing trade volumes.

The port's success is attributed to its commitment to modernization and sustainability. Initiatives such as the Green Port Policy aim to reduce environmental impacts while accommodating growth. Additionally, investments in infrastructure have enhanced its ability to manage larger vessels and increased cargo efficiently.

Port of Savannah: The Fastest-Growing U.S. Port

The Port of Savannah, operated by the Georgia Ports Authority, has emerged as the fastest-growing container port in the United States. In 2024, it experienced a 12.5% increase in container volume compared to the previous year, handling approximately 700,000 additional TEUs . This growth is indicative of the port's expanding role in global trade.

Key to Savannah's success is the Garden City Terminal, the largest single-operator container terminal in North America. The terminal's extensive facilities and strategic location have attracted significant investment and increased cargo traffic. Enhancements in intermodal connectivity have improved the port's efficiency in moving goods inland.

Port of Newark: A Vital East Coast Gateway

Part of the Port of New York and New Jersey, the Port of Newark serves as a vital gateway for international trade on the East Coast. In 2024, the port handled 8.7 million TEUs, marking an 11% increase from the previous year . This growth highlights the port's significance in the national supply chain.

Recent expansions, including a 50-acre container yard and additional rail infrastructure, have enhanced the port's capacity and efficiency . These developments position the Port of Newark to accommodate future growth and continue serving as a critical node in global commerce.

The Ports of Los Angeles, Long Beach, Savannah, and Newark are integral to the position on the United States in global trade. Each port has demonstrated resilience and adaptability in the face of challenges, such as shifting trade policies and increasing demand. Through strategic investments and a commitment to modernization, these ports continue to facilitate the efficient movement of goods, supporting economic growth and connecting the U.S. to international markets.

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