The Maritime Exchange for the Delaware River and Bay today announced the tristate port vessel arrival statistics for 2022. “The Delaware River port system continued its important role as an economic engine for the region over the last 12 months," said Maritime Exchange President Lisa Himber. "Exchange members and local businesses are reaping the benefits of expanded e-commerce and consumer demand even in the face of inflationary pressures."

According to Maritime Exchange records, 2,398 ships arrived at Delaware River port facilities in 2022, a 4% increase in vessel calls over 2021.

Import and export cargoes realized gains year over year with some reaching double digit increases. Petroleum imports closed strong with 316 arrivals, a 24% increase over last year. Vehicle imports increased by 11 or 8%, containerized goods by 42 or 7%, and fruit by 15 or 5%. On the export side, mineral cargoes increased from 23 to 35 or 52%, vehicles by 13 or 20%, and containers by 56 or 7%.

“The 2022 ship arrivals number is the highest of the last five years and just shy of breaking the 2,400 mark not seen since 2017," said Himber. "We are finally at pre-pandemic levels and are optimistic the trend will continue in 2023."