The Port of Oakland. Photo by the San Francisco Chronicle.
The Port of Oakland’s improved cargo numbers – including imports, exports, and empty and full containers – increased 13 percent year over year, which follows a trend of modest upticks starting about a year ago. June was a particularly strong import month, as incoming shipments jumped 30 percent.
Oakland’s port is poised to exploit a revived economy. Last year, it completed a 12-year, $432 million project to deepen its harbor, excavating most of its terminals from 42 feet to 50 feet. The change allows large cargo ships access at lower tides, even when the vessels are fully loaded with goods, and helps Oakland compete with other top trade cities.