The United States has over 360 shipping ports, handling millions of twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) annually. In this blog, we explore the top 11 biggest ports in the US, highlighting their unique features and significance. It will help you determine which port is most convenient when shipping from China.
West Coast ports in the United States
Port of Los Angeles, California
Often referred to as “America’s Port,” the Port of Los Angeles is the biggest seaport in the US. It is a key entry point for approximately 20% of all incoming sea cargo into the country. Spanning an impressive 7,500 acres and 25 cargo terminals, it’s a prime hub for international trade.
The port’s major trade partners include China, Hong Kong, Japan, and South Korea, cementing its place as a central player in global commerce. In 2024, the Port of Los Angeles handled more than 10.66 million TEUs and recorded an annual cargo tonnage of 222 million metric tons.
Port of Long Beach, California
Positioned adjacent to the Port of Los Angeles, the Port of Long Beach is the second-busiest container port in the US. It covers 3,200 acres (about 12.95 square kilometers) and is crucial, particularly in trade with the Asia-Pacific region.
This major US port handles significant cargo volumes, with a throughput of around 9.13 million TEUs and 78.2 million metric tons of good annually. It is a preferred choice for most China-to-USA shipments.
Recognized as the “Best West Coast Seaport,” the port is known for its cutting-edge infrastructure and strong commitment to environmental sustainability.
Northwest Seaport Alliance
Formed in 2015, the Northwest Seaport Alliance is situated in Washington State’s Puget Sound region. It unites the cargo operations of the Port of Seattle and Tacoma to create one of the largest container ports in North America.
The alliance handles approximately 3.38 million TEUs annually, specializing in agricultural exports, electronics, and machinery. Its deepwater berths, on-dock rail systems, and convenient access to major highways support efficient cargo movement across the region.
Port of Oakland, California
Situated in the heart of the San Francisco Bay, the Port of Oakland is a pivotal player in the US shipping industry. It was also the first major port on the Pacific Coast to embrace containerized cargo in the 1960s.
Today, the port processes around 2.34 million TEUs annually. Its prime location makes it a preferred hub for California’s agricultural exports, including wine, nuts, and fresh produce, heading to markets across Asia and Europe.
Port of Houston, Texas
The Port of Houston is one of the largest seaports in the United States by waterborne tonnage. Located on the Gulf Coast in Texas, it handles a diverse array of cargo, from oil and consumer goods to industrial products.
Some key metrics for the Houston seaport include:
- Barges handled:around 215,000
- Annual cargo volume:82 million TEUs
- Annual cargo tonnage:approximately 247 million metric revenue tons
East Coast ports in the United States
Port of New York and New Jersey
The Port of New York and New Jersey is strategically located between Brooklyn and Manhattan. This port handles a diverse range of cargo, including containers, bulk goods, and automobiles, supporting various industries along the East Coast.
It processed nearly 7.4 million TEUs in the past year, showcasing its immense capacity. The port’s key trading partners include China, India, and Germany.
With an annual cargo tonnage of 74 million metric revenue tons and 4.2 million containers, the Port of New York and New Jersey is a major player in the shipping world. The value of containers passing through this port is estimated at $205 billion annually.
Port of Savannah and Brunswick, Georgia
The Georgia Ports Authority manages two of the major ports in the US: the Port of Savannah and the Port of Brunswick.
The Savannah port boasts the largest single-terminal container facility in the Western Hemisphere, processing over 5.54 million TEUs in 2024. It specializes in heavy goods like automobiles, agricultural products, and machinery, serving key trade routes between the US, Asia, Latin America, and Europe.
The port features two deepwater terminals: the Garden City Terminal spans 1,200 acres, while the Ocean Terminal covers 200 acres. Both terminals offer direct access to I-95, I-16, and two Class One railroads, enhancing inland distribution efficiency.
Roughly 70 miles south, the Port of Brunswick is one of the US’s busiest RoRo (roll-on/roll-off) ports, handling heavy equipment and other vehicles. It has become a crucial hub for car and machinery exporters and importers and has three deepwater terminals.
Port of Charleston, South Carolina
The Port of Charleston, managed by the South Carolina Ports Authority (SCPA), is vital in international trade along the East Coast. Renowned for its operational efficiency and environmental sustainability, the port processes approximately 2.6 million TEUs annually.
Stretching across three municipalities — Charleston, North Charleston, and Mount Pleasant — the port operates six public terminals that accommodate a diverse range of cargo. These terminals manage container shipments, motor vehicles, bulk cargo, and project cargo. Additionally, the port serves as a departure point for cruise ship operations, adding to its commercial significance.
Port of Miami, Florida
The Port of Miami is a dynamic hub that efficiently manages a diverse range of good. It is located at the crossroads of major north-south and east-west trade routes. The port’s deep dredge project enables it to accommodate larger cargo ships, enhancing its capacity to handle significant cargo volumes.
In addition to its role in freight, the Miami port is known as the Cruise Capital of the World, offering world-class services to millions of cruise passengers each year.
Port of Virginia
The Port of Virginia ranks among the busiest ports in the US, processing around 3.7 million TEUs annually. Strategically located in the Hampton Roads region, where the Chesapeake Bay meets the James River, the port is a critical shipping gateway on the East Coast.
The port operates through five key terminals:
- Norfolk international terminal
- Newport News Marine Terminal
- Portsmouth marine terminal
- Virginia international gateway
- Virginia inland port
With global corporations like Amazon and Navien establishing operations in Virginia, the port’s activity continues to grow. Its connection to major highways and Class One rail networks ensures seamless transportation across North America.
How to choose the best port for your shipment
Proximity and location
Choosing a port closer to your shipping route can significantly lower inland transportation costs and reduce transit time. This approach also minimizes the risk of cargo damage during transport.
Connectivity and infrastructure
Ports with direct connections to highways, railroads, and airports offer faster and more seamless cargo transfers.
Specialized handling
If you’re shipping specific goods like perishable items, vehicles, or oversized cargo, select a port with experience handling such shipments. Specialized ports offer tailored storage facilities, equipment, and trained personnel to ensure your cargo receives proper care.
Port capacity and reliability
High-traffic ports may offer better services, but they can also experience congestion. Consider the port’s capacity, reliability, and reputation for timely operations before deciding.
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