The following release was published by NWSA:
Strong volumes via the NWSA continued in March as shippers brought orders forward to avoid expected tariffs. Full international imports in March increased 18.4%, marking 13 consecutive months of month-over-month growth. Full international exports increased 2.9%. Total container volume (international and domestic) for the month reached 309,993 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs), up 18.5% compared to March 2024. YTD volumes are up 19%, with full imports growing 26.6% and full exports flat.
The BNSF Railway, Norfolk Southern, and the NWSA have collaborated to develop a three-day faster inland point intermodal product from the PNW destined to and connecting through Chicago. Through a combination of reduced on dock dwell and faster transit, the total time from ship to Chicago will be six days, the fastest from any PNW gateway in North America.
Domestic container volumes increased 2.2% compared to YTD 2024. Alaska volumes increased 1.1%, and Hawaii volumes increased 7.5%.
Other cargo stats:
Total breakbulk volume decreased 36.1% for 76,894 metric tons YTD. High interest rates are having a significant impact on agricultural, mining, and construction equipment sales. Auto volumes were 77,001 units, down 18.1% YTD. Volumes reflect the slowing down of auto sales nationwide.
Source: NWSA