The volume of both imports and exports increased through Gulf Coast ports during October.  This is in part, attributed to concern over possible port and rail strikes with ongoing congestion on the West Coast, the widening of the Panama Canal and improvements to Gulf facilities to handle containers. 

The Port of New Orleans noted a 19 percent increase in container cargo in October, compared to the previous month and 8 percent for year-to-date compared to 2021.  The Port of Houston terminals recorded an 18 percent year-to-date increase in container volume and the Port of Corpus Christi experienced a 15 percent year-over-year increase during October.

In reviewing data, it is apparent that Gulf Coast ports, including Mobile and New Orleans are transferring containers to and from rail. This has implications for a potential rail strike, since capacity and throughput would be severely curtailed in the event of a cessation in rail service, even of short duration, necessitating Congressional intervention.