October 22, 2025
Ports of Seattle and Tacoma September container volume down 13.6% compared to last year
The Northwest Seaport Alliance's September 2025 total container volume (international and domestic) reached 289,120 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs), up 12.6% over August 2025 and down 13.6% compared to September 2024. Tariffs continue to weigh on container volumes, and negative year-over-year comparisons reflect volumes from Canada due to labor disruptions in September 2024.
Full international imports decreased 22% versus last September, while full exports declined 1.2%. YTD volumes, 2,431,217 TEUs, are down 1.7%, with full imports declining 5.7% and full exports declining 2.9%.
Domestic container volumes increased 1.5% compared to YTD 2024. Alaska volumes increased 0.2%, and Hawaii volumes increased 9.2%.
Total breakbulk volume decreased 21.7% for 257,651 metric tons YTD. High interest rates and tariffs continue to impact this segment. Auto volumes were 214,429 units, down 19.8% YTD due to the slowing of auto sales nationwide due to high interest rates and tariffs.
The Northwest Seaport Alliance is a marine cargo operating partnership of the ports of Seattle and Tacoma.
Source: The Northwest Seaport Alliance