Tacoma's container volumes surge in August

As peak shipping season began ramping up in Asia at the end of last month for the holiday shopping season, the Port of Tacoma saw international container volumes post a 14.5% gain year to date.

The Port handled 156,804 TEU in August – nearly 30% more than the same month last year. Along with the start of peak season, two new services associated with the Grand Alliance began calling Washington United Terminals last month.

Uncertainty surrounding labor negotiations on the East and Gulf coasts also appear to be diverting cargo to the West Coast.

While import container volumes improved nearly 18% year to date, export container volumes jumped almost 11%. So far this year, 1,024,896 TEU have crossed Port docks, accounting for a 7.5% increase compared to last year.

The strength in container volumes helped fuel a 25% year-to-date increase in intermodal lifts. Meanwhile, breakbulk volumes remain up about 85%, reflecting the continued high demand for agricultural and construction equipment. < Korea Shipping Gazette >