Question 1

Which U.S. ports are best for DFW-based distribution?

Accepted Answer

Houston (Port of Houston) and Los Angeles/Long Beach are the primary import gateways for Dallas-Fort Worth distribution centers. Houston offers the fastest inland transit at ~4 hours via I-10 and I-69, while LA/LB connects via intermodal rail. Savannah and Norfolk are strong eastern options for East Coast supply chains.

Question 2

What is the current industrial vacancy rate near major U.S. ports?

Accepted Answer

As of Q1 2026, industrial vacancy near the top eight U.S. container ports averages below 5%. Savannah leads at approximately 3.2%, while Los Angeles and Long Beach sit near 4.5-4.8%. Houston and Dallas-Fort Worth submarkets remain among the most active for new lease activity.

Question 3

What is a Foreign Trade Zone (FTZ) and which ports offer them?

Accepted Answer

A Foreign Trade Zone is a federally designated area where imported goods can be stored, manipulated, or manufactured with deferred or reduced customs duties. All eight ports in this report have active FTZ programs. Houston and Los Angeles operate particularly large FTZ footprints with significant warehouse availability.