Liner Shipping’s Massive Economic Impact on the U.S. Revealed in New S&P Global Report

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  • Liner shipping supports 6.4 million U.S. jobs and contributes over $1.1 trillion to the national GDP.

  • It handles 64.4% of U.S. seaborne trade by value, transporting nearly $1.5 trillion in goods annually.

  • The industry generates $262.5 billion in federal and state tax revenue and strengthens domestic production through industrial inputs.


A new independent analysis by S&P Global, released by the World Shipping Council, underscores the liner shipping industry’s critical importance to the U.S. economy. The report quantifies the sector’s annual contribution across several key economic indicators, including GDP, employment, wages, tax revenue, and overall trade activity, according to the World Shipping Council.

Liner Shipping’s Broad Economic Reach


The data shows that the liner shipping industry—covering container and vehicle carriers—supports 6.4 million jobs and contributes more than $1.1 trillion to the U.S. gross domestic product. It also plays a pivotal role in trade, transporting nearly $1.5 trillion worth of goods annually. This includes $335 billion in exports and $1.1 trillion in imports, accounting for 64.4% of all U.S. seaborne trade by value.

Significant Tax and Industrial Impact


In addition to its GDP and trade influence, the industry generates $262.5 billion in U.S. federal and state tax revenue each year. Furthermore, liner shipping is essential for American domestic production. Around 44% of U.S. imports transported by these ships—valued at $490 billion—are industrial inputs such as raw materials, parts, and supplies. These inputs support an additional $628 billion in U.S. economic output.

Reliable Trade Infrastructure


With over 18,000 port calls annually across the U.S., the liner shipping industry plays a foundational role in ensuring the continuity and resilience of supply chains. This extensive port network helps maintain consistent trade flows, reinforcing the nation’s access to both global markets and critical production resources.

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Source: World Shipping Council