Larger vessels and an early jump on the traditional peak shipping season contributed to the second consecutive month of year-over-year gains in Port of Tacoma container volumes. Containers improved 10 percent in April compared to the same month last year.

The larger vessels calling Tacoma terminals are bringing additional cargo across our docks, and some shippers began moving cargo ahead of the peak season in an effort to avoid possible supply chain disruptions due to contract negotiations with U.S. West Coast dockworkers. Negotiations between the International Longshore and Warehouse Union and the Pacific Maritime Association began May 12. The current contract expires June 30.

Year to date, the Port’s container volumes improved 3 percent to 633,225 TEUs (20-foot equivalent units). Full containerized imports grew 5 percent on the year to 238,672 TEUs, while exports posted a 4 percent gain to 184,823 TEUs. Domestic volumes continue to lag, down 1 percent.

Grain exports improved 31 percent year to date to 1.8 million short tons. Volumes appear to be returning to normal following last year’s severe drought in the U.S. Midwest and increased competition from South America.

Auto imports and breakbulk cargo—items too large or bulky to fit in a container—continued to post year-to-date increases, up 14 percent and 28 percent respectively. Log exports fell 32 percent as the housing market slowed in China, and intermodal lifts continued to be down 11 percent.

Download Cargo statistics - April 2014 (43.36 KB), Download Container volumes - April 2014 (47.7 KB)