Top 10 Busiest Ports in the United States by Container Traffic

America’s maritime economy is growing, and at the heart of it are the country’s busiest container ports—critical gateways that fuel everything from your morning coffee to your next smartphone. In this deep dive, we rank the top 10 busiest U.S. ports by container traffic (TEUs), unpacking where they are, what they move, and who they trade with.

1. Port of Los Angeles, California

The Port of Los Angeles, nestled in San Pedro Bay just south of downtown LA, once again confirmed its status as the nation’s busiest container gateway in 2024. Handling an estimated 10.3 million TEUs, it marked one of the busiest years on record.

This port plays a pivotal role in channeling nearly half of the country's containerized imports, with China alone accounting for approximately 45% of its inbound traffic.

The diversity of goods arriving is vast, ranging from high‑tech electronics, apparel, furniture, auto parts, and industrial machinery to catering to both consumer and manufacturing sectors across the nation.

Additionally, the Port of LA continues to pioneer green infrastructure efforts: its Green Port Policy has achieved 92% diesel emission cuts, a 71% reduction in nitrogen oxides, and a 98% decrease in sulfur emissions. As one of the keystones of U.S.–China trade, its operations are vital both economically and strategically.

2. Port of Long Beach, California

Located right next to Los Angeles in San Pedro Bay, the Port of Long Beach set a record by moving 9.6 million TEUs in 2024—a 20% increase compared to 2023, making it the second-busiest container port in the nation. 

This milestone was driven by a 24.3% increase in imports (to 4.7 million TEUs), slightly offset by a 5.9% decrease in exports, while empty-container movements surged to 3.7 million TEUs. Mainly, the inbound cargo consists of electronics, appliances, apparel, and furniture, products mostly originating from China and the wider Asia-Pacific region.

3. Port of New York and New Jersey

Surrounded by New York Harbor and the shores of New Jersey, the Port of New York and New Jersey is the busiest port on the East Coast and the third-largest in the U.S., handling approximately 8.7 million TEUs in 2024—an 11.4% increase over 2023.

The port benefits from the expansions of the Panama Canal, deeper channels, and ongoing infrastructure investments to accommodate larger post-Panamax vessels. Its inbound freight mix includes petroleum, automobiles and auto parts, electronics, pharmaceuticals, and consumer packaged goods, with major origins in Europe (notably Germany) and Asia (China, South Korea).

4. Port of Savannah, Georgia

Situated along the Georgia coast near Savannah, this port has quickly gained prominence. In 2024, it processed 5.6 million TEUs, representing a 12.5% increase year-on-year and just below its all-time peak in 2022. 

The Garden City Terminal is a central hub for retail goods, automotive parts, and heavy machinery, with a strong focus on imports from China and Asia-Pacific markets. Strategic rail connections and expansion into inland terminals have established the Port of Savannah as the fastest-growing port on the East Coast and a central node for intermodal distribution.

5. Port of Houston, Texas

Set along the Gulf Coast through the Houston Ship Channel, Port of Houston handled a record-breaking 4.14 million TEUs in 2024, representing an 8% annual increase—its highest volume ever.

The port serves as a vital gateway for energy-related flows, including petroleum products and petrochemicals, alongside a variety of machinery, steel, and heavy equipment.

Houston’s trade activity is primarily driven by partners in Latin America and Asia, with a significant surge in April 2025 as shippers hurried to avoid proposed tariff hikes, handling 196,222 TEUs, a considerable increase from approximately 160,000 TEUs in the same month last year.

6. Northwest Seaport Alliance (Seattle–Tacoma), Washington

The combined ports of Seattle and Tacoma, operating under the Northwest Seaport Alliance, handled approximately 3.34 million TEUs in 2024, reflecting a 12.3% increase compared to 2023.

The port manages a variety of goods, including agricultural products such as grain and soy, as well as lumber, machinery, and electronics, showcasing its established role in Pacific Northwest trade. Most of its cargo originates from China, Japan, and South Korea.

7. Port of Virginia (Norfolk), Virginia

At the crossroads of the Chesapeake Bay and Atlantic shipping lanes, the Port of Virginia (Norfolk) processed approximately 3.5 million TEUs in 2024, preserving its status as one of the largest East Coast ports in the nation.

The port facilitates import/export movements of automotive parts, seafood products, heavy machinery, coal, and forest products, reflecting a balanced commodity portfolio. Predominant origins include Europe and Asia, especially Germany and China, aligning with its diversified trade network.

8. Port of Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston’s port, tucked along the South Carolina coast where the Cooper River meets the Atlantic, moved about 2.5 million TEUs in 2024—a slight uptick from the year before.

It’s become a key entry point for goods like vehicles, machinery, furniture, and everyday retail items. Most of what arrives comes from Germany and China, with a steady flow from South Korea as well.

Over the past few years, the port has quietly expanded its capacity and upgraded its docks to handle more specialized cargo, including cars and bulk shipments. While it may not match the scale of the country’s biggest ports, Charleston has carved out a solid spot for itself, growing quickly and reliably, thanks to its prime East Coast location.

9. Port of Oakland, California

Strategically located near San Francisco Bay, the Port of Oakland recorded around 2.26 million TEUs in 2024

It continues to serve as a crucial link for agricultural exports, such as nuts, fruits, and wine, alongside electronics and consumer goods arriving from China, Vietnam, and Mexico. Oakland’s inland rail network extends deep into the Central Valley and Midwest, further enhancing its export role.

The port is focused on modernization efforts, including shore‑power infrastructure and a zero‑emissions truck fleet.

10. Port of Miami, Florida

At Florida’s southern tip, the Port of Miami moved around 1.2 million TEUs in 2024, continuing its steady year-over-year growth.

Called the “Cargo Gateway of the Americas,” Miami plays a vital role in bringing in everything from fresh fruit and frozen meat to pharmaceuticals and everyday goods. Most of this cargo comes from Central and South America, with Colombia and Ecuador among its top trade partners.

What sets Miami apart is how smoothly it connects sea and air freight. Its proximity to Miami International Airport makes it a natural hub for time-sensitive and perishable goods.