Galveston is rising in the rankings as a top-50 U.S. cargo port. Almost 12 million tons of cargo moved through the deep-water harbor in 2020, placing it 46th among the busiest U.S. ports and waterways.

According to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, a 9-percent increase in cargo tonnage over 2019 boosted Galveston’s ranking in the list of 150 ports and waterways.

“This is great news for the Port of Galveston, our port partners and our region,” said Rodger Rees, Galveston port director and CEO. “This ranking classifies us as a high-usage port, making us eligible for more funding opportunities.”

The Galveston Harbor is ranked among the top 50 cargo ports in the United States. In 2021, the Port of Galveston saw growth in almost all types of cargo, including bulk liquids, bulk fertilizer, wind and general cargo, roll-on/roll-off cargos, and new cars.
The Galveston Harbor is ranked among the top 50 cargo ports in the United States. In 2021, the Port of Galveston saw growth in almost all types of cargo, including bulk liquids, bulk fertilizer, wind and general cargo, roll-on/roll-off cargos, and new cars.

Rees added that cargo growth generates more jobs, wages and revenue for the region. In 2020, the port moved 4.3 million tons of cargo and generated 454,000 hours for union workers. These totals do not include the economic impact of the 7.6 million tons of cargo moved through private docks in Galveston Harbor.

In 2021, the port moved 4.9 million tons, a 14-percnt increase over 2020. Rees said, “We saw growth in almost all types of cargo, including bulk liquids, bulk fertilizer, wind and general cargo, roll-on/roll-off cargos, and new cars. Improvements to our West Port Cargo Complex and a new, privately operated cargo laydown yard also contributed to our growth.

In addition to being a top-50 cargo port, Galveston is the fourth most popular cruise port in the U.S., hosting more than 1 million passengers a year. The port’s leased commercial waterfront area, with its restaurants, hotel and other attractions, offers visitors a front-row seat to the working port. The area is adjacent to Galveston’s historic downtown with blocks of restaurants, shops, historical architecture and museums.