Terminal 46 welcomes first car vessel in 20 years, increasing volume at NWSA Gateway
On February 2, 2024, Terminal 46 at the gateway to the Northwest Seaport Alliance (NWSA) welcomed the first car vessel in more than 20 years, marking a significant milestone in maritime transportation. The GLOBIS Silver Sky, carrying more than 2,500 vehicles, made its grand entrance into the terminal, heralding a new era in the port’s automotive business.
First car ship in over 20 years
GLOBIS Silver Sky’s arrival at Terminal 46 marks the end of a long hiatus for car shipping at the terminal. This is the first car carrier to grace North Harbor in more than 20 years, an event that is expected to further increase the already burgeoning volume of cars on NWSA’s doorstep. Vehicles brought by the ship are headed to KIA and Hyundai dealers across Canada, with distribution expected later this month.
Increase car sales volume with NWSA Gateway
NWSA Gateway has shown a remarkable recovery in the aftermath of the pandemic, with car sales increasing 96% year over year in December 2023. With the introduction of GLOBIS Silver Sky, these numbers are expected to increase further. This solidifies his NWSA Gateway’s position as a key player in the global motor transport industry.
Terminal 46: Versatile maritime hub
Terminal 46 has been a key component of the NWSA Gateway for several years, providing the necessary capacity for diverse cargo demands. In response to the increased flow of containerized cargo following the pandemic, the terminal has adapted to become a critical near-dock storage facility that supports the smooth transition of containerized cargo. The successful implementation of the new automotive operations at Terminal 46 is due to the collaborative efforts of local U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the International Longshore and Warehouse Association, and Pacific Terminal Services Company. The terminal continues to demonstrate its versatility and operational value and is a significant contributor to the economic growth of the Pacific Northwest region.