Shanghai Port Sets New Container Record Despite Typhoon Disruption

Shanghai Port handled a record 5.135 million TEU in September, as the world’s busiest container port worked to clear backlogs caused by successive typhoons and a surge in export demand.

The September result was a 6.2% increase on the same month in 2025, with the Shanghai International Port Group (SIPG) reporting an average daily throughput of around 171,000 TEU.

Operations had been disrupted from July by three powerful typhoons, which forced temporary suspensions and contributed to vessel congestion. The delays coincided with strong international demand and increased export volumes, adding further pressure on port operations.

Coordinating operations to clear the backlog

According to SIPG, the port responded by improving berth allocation and loading and unloading operations, while working with shipping lines to consolidate shipments where possible.

The focus was on managing concentrated vessel arrivals and the backlog of export cargo coming from manufacturers.

The scale of activity was also evident at the Mingdong Terminal, which handled 30,056 TEU in a single 24-hour period, exceeding its previous operational record. SIPG credited its automation and operational coordination with helping manage the high volumes.

Strong volumes continue into October

The momentum continued during China’s National Day holiday period, which forms part of the traditional Golden Week break. While shipping lines often adjust schedules and introduce blank sailings around the holiday, SIPG reported that Shanghai’s docks and departments continued operating throughout the period.

The port handled 1.15 million TEU during the holiday week, up 1.3% year on year.

SIPG says it continues to monitor vessel arrivals and fluctuations in cargo volumes, maintaining that the port has returned to normal operating conditions following the typhoons.

Congestion remains a factor to watch

However, record throughput does not necessarily mean congestion has been fully resolved.

Linerlytica’s figures for 10 October listed 114 vessels at anchor off Shanghai, with a further 82 alongside berths. The report put the capacity of container ships at anchor at more than 629,000 TEU, giving Shanghai the highest queue-to-berth ratio.

The figures highlight the challenge facing major ports when weather-related disruption coincides with strong export demand. Even when terminals continue to handle record volumes, vessel queues and delayed arrivals can take longer to clear.

For shipping lines and cargo owners, Shanghai’s September performance demonstrates the port’s ability to process substantial volumes under pressure. But the number of vessels still waiting offshore suggests that congestion remains an important consideration as the market moves further into October.