The Northwest Seaport Alliance (NWSA) gateway has experienced a period of declining cargo volumes over the past few weeks. However, market indicators point to a significant surge expected to begin shortly, with the port and its partners actively preparing for the increase.

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For the third consecutive week, total volumes at the NWSA were down compared to last year. Specifically, total vessel lifts, which include empty and export containers, were down 25.5% compared to the average for the same month in the prior year14. International imports also saw a decrease of 15.6% compared to the May 2024 weekly average15. Looking at the week ending May 23, international import containers were down significantly compared to prior periods, including -19.2% vs the 2025 Q1 average and -18.6% vs the 2024 Weekly Average5. Truck transactions, measuring containers moving in and out of terminals via truck, were also lower, down 12.7% vs the May 2024 Weekly Average and -7.7% vs the 2025 Q1 average. The report notes that the larger drop in total vessel lifts compared to imports might be related to a decrease in exports.

Despite the recent downturn, the outlook is shifting dramatically. Market reports indicate a surge in volume leaving Asia for the West Coast2. The NWSA expects to see volume increases starting the week of June 2, 2025, although the main increase in import volumes related to the "90 Day Pause" agreement from May 12 is not anticipated until later in June. Carriers calling the NWSA gateway are indicating that their services will be full starting mid-June.

In anticipation of this expected surge, the NWSA and its supply chain partners are fully prepared to handle the additional volume. Terminals are ready to increase gate hours and ensure appointment availability if needed3. Furthermore, both major rail carriers serving the area, UP and BNSF, are building a surplus of bare rail cars locally to accommodate the movement of the incoming surge cargo.

Another indicator of returning stability and increased volume is the projected significant decrease in void (or blank) sailings. While there were 7 void sailings in May, currently only 3 are scheduled for the month of July. This suggests a move back towards more consistent vessel calls at the gateway. The first vessels related to the "90 Day Pause" agreement are expected to arrive the week of June 2, though the bulk of the import volume increase from this is expected later in June.