2024 closes record ports: containers, shipping and new challenges
1. Record container volumes in the US at the end of 2024
The year 2024 has become one of the most significant in the history of shipping, thanks in particular to the huge increase in the volume of containers arriving in the United States. December 2024 recorded 2,367,271 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs), the second highest container volume ever for that month – trailing only December 2021 with 2,389,060 TEUs. Overall, annual container volumes in 2024 reached a staggering 28,196,462 TEUs, up 13% from 2023. The main driver of this growth was trade with China, which saw a 14.5% year-on-year increase in December.
Despite the slight drop in volume compared to November (-0.1%), this result is considered extremely positive, especially given that pandemics and other global factors have disrupted the smoothness of supply chains in recent years. Improvements in transit delays at US East Coast ports were also a significant factor, indicating an overall improvement in the efficiency of logistics chains.
2. The importance of China and geopolitical influences on shipping
Trade between the United States and China remains a key pillar of world trade. In December 2024, the total from China was 902,519 TEUs, 38.2% of the total containers coming into the U.S. The largest categories of goods shipped were furniture (HS-94), plastics (HS-39), and machinery (HS-84). However, the upcoming Chinese Lunar New Year, which begins in January 2025, may cause a temporary drop in volume.
In addition to trade cooperation with China, geopolitical factors also influence global logistics. For example, the escalation of conflicts in the Middle East region, including Houthi attacks on ships in the Red Sea, has put pressure on shipping costs and slowed ship movements. If this destabilisation continues, it could have wider implications for global trade.
3. Ports on the US coast: the West dominates, but the East catches up
In December 2024, western US ports maintained their dominance, handling 44.9% of all incoming containers, while eastern and Gulf Coast ports combined accounted for 37.1%. Ports such as Los Angeles and Oakland saw volume increases, while ports such as New York/New Jersey and Long Beach reported declines.
An interesting trend was that the overall share of the 10 largest US ports in national capacity fell to its lowest level in 2024, suggesting a redistribution of volumes among smaller ports. This creates opportunities for port infrastructure development and congestion reduction at key logistics hubs.
4. Improving transit times
The December 2024 report shows that transit delays have improved at most ports. For example, the Port of Los Angeles reduced delays by 1.6 days, while Seattle reported a 1.4 day improvement. In contrast, the ports of Tacoma and Long Beach faced small increases in delay. These changes suggest that the US logistics industry is adjusting and trying to mitigate the effects of high volumes and seasonal demand.
5. Challenges for 2025: tariffs, conflicts and unions
The year 2025 will bring several potential challenges for global shipping. It is expected that the new US administration could impose wider and deeper tariffs on goods from China, Mexico and Canada, which could cause uncertainty in supply chains. Another challenge is the ongoing negotiations between the USMX and the ILA regarding labor agreements at East Coast and Gulf Coast ports. If an agreement is not reached by mid-January, there could be significant disruptions to operations.
6. The impact of conflicts on global trade
Middle East conflicts, particularly in the Red Sea region, continue to affect global trade. Rising attacks on ships have forced carriers to seek alternative routes, such as bypassing the Cape of Good Hope, which increases shipping times and costs. This situation highlights the importance of regional stability for the smooth functioning of global supply chains.
7. Long-term trends and recommendations for logistics
To meet these challenges, companies are advised to focus on diversifying supply chains, optimising port operations and monitoring geopolitical risks. Adaptation to possible changes in trade rules and tariffs will also be key to success.
Czech Republic, Písek 
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