Seattle Port declared fastest growing container port in 2005
08 Feb '06
3 min read
The Port of Seattle informed that it was North America's fastest growing container port in 2005 as a record 2,088,000 TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units) moved through the harbor, a 17.6 percent increase over 2004.
It is the second year in a row in which Seattle's container business has grown, on a percentage basis, faster than any other US port. Port officials project further growth in 2006. Eventually, the Seattle harbor could reach more than 3 million TEU's.
"The ongoing investments we've made in our marine terminals, waterways and landside transportation connections are paying off," said Port of Seattle Commission President Patricia Davis.
"Growth in trade with China and the addition of major import distribution centers in the Puget Sound region are solidifying our position as a major gateway for waterborne commerce."
The Port has invested nearly $1 billion in its maritime facilities and infrastructure over the past 12 years. Importers such as Home Depot, Target, Wal Mart and Pier 1 Imports have opened import distribution centers in the area, bringing more cargo to Seattle.
Port CEO Mic Dinsmore noted that part of the growth comes from aggressive marketing of its facilities by Port officials. And, he added, the efficient cargo-handling facilities and direct connections to two railroad mainlines means shippers can get their goods to inland markets without delay.
"Importers have realized that distributing goods from the Pacific Northwest provides greater flexibility and makes them less vulnerable to disruptions," Dinsmore said. "They can re-route cargo while it's underway to take advantage of local sales trends," he said.
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