Auto and Cargo Shipments Fuel Record Port Activity

BALTIMORE—Despite some labor strife, the port of Baltimore set a number of records in 2014, including handling overall cargo of 9.7 million tons, which edged the 9.6 million tons handled there in both 2013 and 2012.

The port of Baltimore ranked ninth in the nation for overall cargo value and 13th in cargo tonnage handled, according to the Maryland Port Administration. The activity at the port was fueled in large part by a record number of automobile shipments and cargo containers handled at the piers, according to the Baltimore Sun.

Including private terminals, the port of Baltimore saw a small decline in tonnage handled, with 29.5 million tons of international cargo in 2014 compared to 30.3 million in 2013. The value of the total public and private cargo handled in Baltimore fell from about $52.6 billion in 2013 to approximately $52.5 billion last year.

"The port of Baltimore is one of Maryland's most important economic assets and it will play an integral role in our efforts to help grow the state's economy," Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan states. "My administration is focused on building Maryland's reputation as a place that's 'Open for Business' and the port can play a pivotal role in spreading this message while also delivering real economic growth."

Labor unrest continues to dog the port, however. Local 333 of the International Longshoremen's Association lacks a local contract with Baltimore shippers and rejected their latest offer in a vote last week. See story in the Baltimore Sun.