Iron ore shipments from U.S. Great Lakes ports witnessed a notable decline in September 2025, totaling 4.7 million tons, marking a 14.2% decrease from the same month last year. According to the Lake Carriers’ Association, shipments also fell 7.4% below the five-year average, reflecting ongoing challenges in the region’s bulk shipping and industrial sectors.
Year-to-Date Decline and Port Performance
So far in 2025, total iron ore loadings have reached 31.4 million tons, down 14% year-over-year and 6.6% below the five-year average for the first three quarters.
Among major ports, Two Harbors, Minnesota led in shipments with 1.48 million tons in September, though still lower than its 2024 output of 1.7 million tons. Superior, Wisconsin, and Duluth, Minnesota, two other key loading points, also recorded significant reductions down 35% and 22%, respectively, from last year.
Meanwhile, Marquette, Michigan, remained comparatively stable, with 816,612 tons, only slightly below its 2024 figure.
Industry Overview and Long-Term Trends
The Lake Carriers’ Association, which has represented the U.S.-flag Great Lakes fleet since 1880, highlights that the industry continues to transport essential raw materials iron ore, coal, stone, and cement that form the backbone of U.S. manufacturing and infrastructure.
Despite this, the downward trend in shipments reflects broader economic slowdowns and reduced steel production activity. With the Great Lakes fleet capable of moving over 90 million tons annually, sustaining consistent cargo volumes remains vital for both regional employment and national industrial supply chains.
The September 2025 figures underscore growing pressures on Great Lakes shipping operations amid fluctuating industrial demand. While iron ore remains a cornerstone commodity for U.S. industry, continued declines suggest that fleet operators and policymakers may need to explore strategies to stabilize trade and strengthen maritime logistics resilience across the Great Lakes region.
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Source: MARINE LINK
