The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey (Port of NY/NJ) became the country's second-busiest in 2023.

Port of NY/NJ handled 7.8 million TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units) over 2023 — representing a 4.4% increase from pre-pandemic 2019.

"The seaport was the second-busiest in the nation for loaded imports and exports, handling 5.3 million loaded TEUs throughout the year," the gateway said in a statement.

Meanwhile, in December 2023, seaport volume was a strong 7.2% increase over December 2019's levels.

The seaport handled 633,925 TEUs, a 1.6% decrease from November 2023, reflecting the normal seasonal decrease at the end of the year.

Port of NY/NJ noted that port authority airports recorded their busiest December ever, capping a record-breaking 2023 that saw the airports collectively achieve their highest annual passenger volume ever.

The Port of New York and New Jersey finished the year ahead of its pre-pandemic 2019 activity.