The United States has significant shipping operations throughout the American continent. It covers 75% of the cargo it transports via sea routes. A total of 50 U.S. ports handled a record 2.363 billion tons of cargo in 2019.
Historically, the United States has had a significant presence in the shipping industry since the early 1600s. However, starting in 1820, the commercial freight business got a huge boost.
Over the past decade, cargo handling by U.S. shipping has grown by 6.9%. The U.S. ranks second among countries with the largest exclusive economic zone. The activity area covers an area of 11.351 million square kilometers.
Cargo tonnage (million metric tons) at the 5 major U.S. ports frequently exceeds 3 digits. At the same time, a total of 7 ports jointly handle 47% of the total seaborne cargo.
Today we review these 7 major ports (Port of Houston, Port of South Louisiana, Port of New York and New Jersey, Port of Corpus Christi, Port of Beaumont, Port of New Orleans, Port of Long Beach) and cargo patterns, locations and operating patterns. The facilities also share maritime trade routes with partners in Asia, Africa and Australia.
Rapid growth of U.S. port network
Twenty-five percent of U.S.-China marine business reflects a strategic growth vision.
This corresponds to 16% of trade relations with European outlets only. U.S. global influence is evident as ties develop along Indian ports and in Africa.
The major ports of the United States play a pivotal role in the stable development of its economy. More than $45 billion in growth costs for these facilities are used for network expansion.