- August 2024 saw record-breaking container volumes, with a 30.1% increase in TEUs compared to August 2023.
- Year-to-date (YTD) container volumes grew by 14.1%, with significant increases in both imports (22.7%) and exports (14%).
- The Maersk Alette, the largest container vessel to call at the Tacoma Harbor, is also the first dual-fuel vessel capable of sailing on green methanol.
The gateway experienced strong container volumes in August 2024, largely driven by increased vessel calls, intermodal volume, and diverted cargo. Full international imports surged 49.4% compared to August 2023, reaching the highest level for the month since 2010. Full international exports also saw an 18.5% increase, surpassing the five-year average, reports NWSA.
Impressive Growth in International Cargo
International volumes showed a significant increase of 45.6% over August 2023.
The total container volume for August 2024 reached 315,739 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs), a growth of 30.1% over the previous year.
Year-to-Date Volume Growth
Year-to-date container volumes increased by 14.1% over the same period last year, totaling 2,137,902 TEUs.
Full imports rose 22.7%, while full exports increased by 14%, highlighting the gateway’s continued strength in global trade.
Maersk Alette Makes Historic Call at Tacoma Harbor
Earlier in August, the 16,592 TEU Alette Maersk, the largest container vessel ever to call at the Tacoma (South) Harbor, docked at Husky Terminal.
Notably, the Maersk Alette is the first dual-fuel vessel capable of running on green methanol, emphasizing the gateway’s commitment to sustainable shipping.
Domestic Container Volume Decline
While international container volumes saw growth, domestic container volumes fell by 1% compared to year-to-date 2023. Alaska volumes increased slightly by 0.3%, while Hawaii volumes declined 7.3%.
Other Cargo Statistics
Breakbulk cargo saw a 3.8% decrease, totaling 298,394 metric tons year-to-date. However, automobile volumes increased by 10.2%, with 237,713 units reported YTD.
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Source: NWSA
