Houston, TX – Port Houston celebrates a momentous achievement as it reports an unprecedented surge in container volumes for February 2024. The figures reveal a remarkable 20% increase compared to the same period last year, with a total of 375,965 Twenty-Foot Equivalent Units (TEUs) passing through its terminals. This surge marks a significant milestone for the port, reflecting its robust growth trajectory.
Loaded export volumes showcased a particularly robust performance, registering a staggering 25% increase compared to February 2023, reaching a total of 145,766 TEUs. This surge cements February 2024 as the leading month for container exports in Port Houston’s history. Concurrently, loaded imports also experienced a notable 18% uptick compared to the same period last year.
Port officials attribute this stellar performance to strategic investments in infrastructure growth across the region. Notably, the progress on the Houston Ship Channel Expansion – Project 11 stands out. With recent completion of dredging efforts by Curtin Maritime Corp., the channel now offers an additional 30 minutes of vessel transit time, facilitating smoother operations. Furthermore, Callan Marine Ltd.’s contract award for the remaining dredging work underscores the port’s commitment to enhancing navigational efficiency.
Roger Guenther, Executive Director at Port Houston, expressed pride in the organization’s achievements, stating, “Throughout the project to expand the Channel, we have worked at an unprecedented rate to deliver the benefits to our customers and our region.” Guenther also highlighted upcoming enhancements, noting that by year’s end, Bayport Container Terminal will accommodate vessels of up to 15,000 TEUs, further bolstering the port’s capabilities.
The port’s commitment to modernization extends to its landside infrastructure as well. The recent arrival of seven new hybrid-electric rubber-tired gantry (RTG) cranes at Barbours Cut underscores its focus on efficiency and sustainability. Moreover, anticipation mounts for the arrival of new ship-to-shore (STS) cranes at Bayport later this summer, promising enhanced operational capabilities.
In addition to its container operations, Port Houston’s multipurpose facilities also reported significant gains. Steel import volumes witnessed a notable 6% increase in February compared to the previous year, contributing to an overall tonnage increase of 18% across all terminals.
Port Houston’s exceptional performance in February underscores its pivotal role as a key trade gateway. With ongoing investments in infrastructure and a proactive approach to meeting evolving industry demands, the port is poised to sustain its growth trajectory and solidify its position as a premier maritime hub.
