Full international imports decreased 21.2% May 2025 vs. May 2024, ending 14 consecutive months of month-over-month growth. The decline in May volumes reflect, in part, tariff uncertainty impacts to shipping decisions. Full international exports decreased 10.7%. Total container volume (international and domestic) for the month reached 250,851 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs), down 9.4% compared to May 2024. YTD volumes are up 10.2%, with full imports growing 12% and full exports declining 2.5%.

The NWSA is pleased to recognize the top performing ocean services as part of its Voyage Consistency & On-Time Arrival Award Program. The Program recognizes high performing ocean services that, through commitment to schedule reliability, have had a positive impact on overall service levels in the gateway. The following services completed 96% of their advertised proforma voyages to Seattle/Tacoma from May 2024 through April 2025:

• Swire Shipping’s Westwood Service
• MSC’s California Express
• Swire Shipping’s Sun Chief Express

Domestic container volumes increased 3.5% compared to YTD 2024. Alaska volumes increased 2.5%, and Hawaii volumes increased 9.1%.

Other cargo stats:

• Total breakbulk volume decreased 31.1% for 138,117 metric tons YTD as the segment continues to struggle due to high interest rates and the impacts of tariffs.
• Auto volumes were 123,350 units, down 13.8% YTD. Volumes reflect the slowing down of auto sales nationwide.

View the May 2025 cargo reports:

• Container volumes – May 2025
• Cargo statistics – May 2025