In the early decades of the 20th century, Oakland had four separate railroads that terminated here. In addition, there was a vibrant waterfront for domestic and international shipping as well as competing ferry systems shuttling passengers to and from San Francisco.

In the Bay Area today, cars are the primary method of transportation for moving people, although a light rail system (BART), bus,  and ferry system is in existence. A railroad (AMTRAK) also operates, albeit on a limited basis and is constantly threatened for closure by Congress. A bright spot amid this is that the Oakland airport is a growing and important influence to the area although it too has been impacted by the events of September 11th.

For commercial goods, intermodal shipping (using containers that can be transported by sea, rail or truck) is the dominant method of transportation. This versatile shipping system has enabled the Port of Oakland to become one of the most important harbors on the West Coast, primarily linking commerce with Asia, and has provided jobs to local and long distance trucking firms.