- NWSA reported a 12.3% year-over-year increase in container throughput, totaling 3,340,733 TEUs.
- December container volumes grew by 16%, with international volumes up by 20%.
- Vessel calls increased by 7% year-over-year, reaching 1,798.
- Breakbulk volumes declined by 11.2%, while auto volumes saw a slight 0.3% decrease.
- Terminal 5 Modernization Phase 2 expanded cargo handling capabilities, adding six super-post Panamax cranes.
- Terminal 46 improvements added 750 auto storage spaces, handling nearly 19,000 units since February 2024.
The North West Seaport Alliance (NWSA), a collaboration between the ports of Tacoma and Seattle, reported strong container volume growth in 2024. December alone recorded 304,748 TEUs, a 16% increase from the same month in 2023, with international container volumes rising by 20%, according to Container News.
Over the year, NWSA achieved a 12.3% year-over-year increase in total throughput, reaching 3,340,733 TEUs. This growth was driven by a 20% surge in full imports and an 8% increase in full exports. Additionally, 1,798 vessels called at its terminals, reflecting a 7% annual growth.
Breakbulk and Auto Volumes
Breakbulk volumes saw a decline of 11.2%, totaling 402,681 metric tons for 2024. Auto volumes experienced a slight 0.3% decrease, recording 337,749 units for the year.
Terminal 5 Modernization Project
The completion of Phase 2 of the Terminal 5 Modernization Project in March expanded its cargo handling capabilities to 185 acres, allowing for the accommodation of ultra-large vessels. The project included two reconfigured berths, the addition of six super-post Panamax cranes, and on-dock rail infrastructure that benefits agricultural exporters and reduces truck traffic. Future plans include installing additional refrigerated plug-ins.
Terminal 46 Developments
In collaboration with PTSC, NWSA reconfigured parts of Terminal 46, adding approximately 750 auto storage spaces and increasing total capacity to 7,750 units. In February 2024, Terminal 46 began handling autos, with the GLOVIS vessel Silver Sky marking its first arrival. Since then, nearly 19,000 auto units have passed through the terminal.
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Source: Container News
