A Port Hub is a major seaport or inland distribution center that acts as a central connection point for the movement of cargo. These hubs consolidate shipments from various origins and distribute them onward—either domestically or globally—via ship, rail, or truck. Think of them as the nerve centers of international trade.

Why Are Port Hubs Critical?

• Strategic Location: Choosing the right hub port can reduce inland freight costs and get products to market quicker.
• High Volume & Efficiency: Port hubs move massive container volumes—great for service frequency, but vulnerable to congestion and dwell time fees.
• Regulatory Bottlenecks: Most customs holds, exams, and demurrage costs originate at the port. Working with a proactive partner can save thousands in unnecessary fees.

Major U.S. Port Hubs

1. Port of Los Angeles (LA), California

The largest container port in the U.S., handling over 9 million TEUs annually. Known as “America’s Port,” it’s the primary gateway for transpacific trade with Asia.

2. Port of Long Beach, California

Located adjacent to LA, Long Beach is the second busiest U.S. container port and a key player in the Southern California mega port complex. Handles 8–9 million TEUs annually.

3. Port of New York and New Jersey

The largest port hub on the East Coast, serving as the main gateway for goods entering the densely populated Northeast. Moves more than 8 million TEUs each year.

4. Port of Savannah, Georgia

The fastest-growing U.S. port and the fourth busiest. Known for its highly efficient terminal operations and deepwater capacity, Savannah processes over 5 million TEUs per year.

5. Port of Houston, Texas

The top U.S. port hub for foreign tonnage and a leader in energy exports. Handles over 250 million tons of cargo annually, with strong container and bulk traffic.

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

This alliance handles over 3 million TEUs annually and serves as a strategic gateway for Asian trade in the Pacific Northwest.

7. Port of Virginia (Norfolk), Virginia

Features some of the deepest channels on the East Coast. With ongoing infrastructure upgrades, it handles around 3.5 million TEUs annually.

8. Port of Oakland, California

A key West Coast gateway for agricultural exports and e-commerce imports, processing around 2.3 million TEUs annually.

9. Port of Charleston, South Carolina

Known for its reliability and expanding terminals, Charleston handles over 2 million TEUs a year and is a growing player in Southeast U.S. logistics.

10. Port of Miami, Florida

The cruise capital of the world is also a container port specializing in Latin American trade. It moves around 1.2 million TEUs each year and is deepwater post-Panamax ready.

Need Assistance with Port Hubs?

Whether you’re navigating congestion, equipment shortages, or regulatory hurdles, Shapiro is here to help. Our expertise ensures your cargo moves efficiently through major port hubs.

Contact us today for port routing support, drayage coordination, and customs readiness!