March Records 8.5% Growth in Container Volumes at Northwest Seaport Alliance (NWSA)
The Northwest Seaport Alliance (NWSA) reports a significant uptick in container volumes, reaching 261,495 TEU in March, reflecting an impressive 8.5% increase compared to March 2023. Year-to-date (YTD) comparisons show a 2.9% rise to 699,382 TEU, driven by a 5.6% increase in full imports and a remarkable 14.8% growth in full exports.
Notably, full international exports maintain a seven-month growth streak, soaring by 15.6% over March 2023. Full international imports also surged by 17.1%, contributing to a solid 9.5% increase in total international volumes.
Meanwhile, domestic container volume saw a modest 1.8% YTD increase in 2024 compared to the same period in 2023. Alaska volumes witnessed a healthy 4.9% rise, while Hawaii volumes experienced a slight decline of 11.3%.
NWSA attributes the robust performance in the first quarter to consistent voyage schedules and increased vessel calls throughout March, signaling a strong finish for its container business.