Shreveport: A Hidden Distribution & Logistics Powerhouse

Shreveport: A Hidden Powerhouse for Distribution and Logistics 

We’ve talked a lot over the past couple years on 710KEEL about how Shreveport is poised to turn a corner into an exciting future.  Shreveport Louisiana, isn’t just another mid-sized city—it’s sitting on a massive commercial advantage that most people don’t even realize.  

Shreveport’s geographic location places it within a 200-mile radius of more than 16 million people. This includes large metro areas such as: 

• Dallas-Fort Worth (7.6 million residents) 
• Houston (7.1 million residents) 
• Little Rock (750,000 residents) 
• Jackson, MS (600,000 residents) 

This regional population base rivals some of the biggest cities in the country. By comparison: 

• Chicago metro area has around 9.6 million people,  
• Los Angeles has 13.2 million 
• Atlanta Metro is 7.2 million  

In other words, Shreveport sits at the center of a population hub that is larger than most of the major metro areas in the U.S. 

A Regional Population Base That Rivals New York 

Let’s put this into perspective. The New York City metro area has around 20.1 million people. That’s only about 25% larger than the number of people living within a 200-mile drive of Shreveport. Yes, you read that right—Shreveport’s reach is not that far off from the largest city in the country. And unlike NYC, it comes with lower costs, easier transportation routes, and zero congestion nightmares. 

So why isn’t everyone talking about Shreveport as a distribution hub? Well, fortunately, that’s starting to change. 

Shreveport Regional Airport: More Than Just Passenger Flights 

Western Global at Shreveport Regional Airport (SHV) is quietly making big moves in the cargo world. The airport has a growing freight operation, handling over 27,000 metric tons of cargo annually, making it one of the most important regional cargo hubs in the South. 

And it’s not just freight—passenger traffic at SHV is booming, with over 715,000 travelers in 2024, the highest numbers since 2000. That kind of growth means more business, more jobs, and more opportunities for logistics companies to set up shop in a prime location. 

The Port of Caddo-Bossier: Shreveport’s Secret Economic Engine 

Most people don’t think of Shreveport as a port city, but the Port of Caddo-Bossier is a major player in Louisiana’s economy. Connected to the Red River and the Mississippi River system, it allows goods to move from the Midwest straight down to the Gulf of Mexico. 

A recent 100,000-square-foot expansion shows just how much demand is growing.  

Why Shreveport Is the Perfect Distribution Hub 

When you combine Shreveport’s huge regional population, its growing airport, a strategically located port, and major highways like I-20 and I-49, the city starts looking like one of the smartest places in the South for logistics and distribution. 

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Shreveport may not get the national attention of Dallas or Atlanta, but it’s sitting in the perfect spot for businesses looking to move products quickly and efficiently. The numbers speak for themselves—Shreveport’s commercial footprint is bigger than most people realize. 

For companies looking for a cost-effective, well-connected distribution center, Shreveport isn’t just an option—it’s a hidden gem that’s only going to keep growing. 

Note: Population figures are approximate and based on available data as of 2020.