The Port of Galveston is experiencing strong momentum in roll-on/roll-off (ro-ro) cargo, reaffirming its reputation as a reliable Gulf Coast gateway for vehicle and equipment imports. With historic partnerships and strategic infrastructure upgrades, the port is not only handling increasing cargo volumes but also creating steady employment and long-term economic benefits for the region.
Ro-Ro Cargo: A Longstanding Economic Engine
Ro-ro cargo has been one of the most dependable segments at the Port of Galveston for decades, supporting jobs across multiple sectors—from stevedores and truck drivers to union workers.
In 2024 alone, ro-ro operations contributed 445,000 tons to the port’s overall cargo movement of 3.4 million tons, largely from key markets in the EU, UK, and Mexico. With consistent calls from six to ten ships per month via four liner services, the port’s ro-ro trade continues to be a backbone of its economic success.
Soaring Cargo Volumes Reflect Rising Demand
The first quarter of 2025 saw a significant uptick in cargo traffic, with monthly tonnages rising from 259,085 tons in January to 746,958 tons in March. Ro-ro cargo played a major role in this surge, jumping from 22,828 tons to 85,244 tons during the same period. These increases underscore the port’s growing role in global trade and the rising demand for efficient, multimodal logistics solutions on the Gulf Coast.
Strategic Investments to Support Future Growth
To keep pace with rising cargo volumes and partner expectations, the Port of Galveston is investing $77.5 million in expanding its West Port Cargo Complex. Scheduled for completion in April 2026, the upgrades will include new berth and laydown areas, enhancing capacity and operational efficiency. This investment reflects the port’s commitment to long-term collaboration, especially with established partners like Wallenius Wilhelmsen, ARC, K-Line, and NYK, as well as ro-ro stevedore Ports America Texas Inc.
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Source: GALVESTON WHARVES
