Port of Stockton posts a record year

The Port of Stockton announced yesterday that 2017 was a record breaker, with the port logging a 21 percent increase in cargo volume and a 10 percent increase in vessel calls over 2016.

"In 2017 we grew our cargo business to record levels and our tenant base is at an all-time high," said Richard Aschieris, director of the California port, in a press release.

Aschieris attributed several factors to the port's growth, including its central location and rail service that helps customers move freight quickly once it arrives.

"A few examples of how we move freight faster are that we are centrally located, adjacent to less congested highways and offer a 24/7 gate for round-the-clock access to freight," he said. "The Port of Stockton is served by [Union Pacific Railroad] and [BNSF Railway Co.] and has 2.5 miles of on-dock rail. This gets freight moving to and from any point in North America as quickly as possible."

Also adding to the port's business growth is room for customers to grow, said Aschieris.

"We offer 7 million square feet of existing warehouse space and another 600 acres for future development," he said.

Looking ahead, the port is advancing a number of new development projects, said Sylvester Aguilar, chairman of the port's board.

"Strengthening our infrastructure will help us meet the needs of continued growth and capacity," Aguilar said. "We anticipate that even more companies will follow suit and set down roots at the Port of Stockton."