HMM Shipping Line is strengthening its long-term commitment to the Tacoma Harbor through a major investment in Washington United Terminals (WUT) that will increase the terminal’s cargo capacity by nearly 50% and position The Northwest Seaport Alliance (NWSA) gateway to serve larger container vessels well into the future. The project will increase annual cargo-handling capacity at WUT from approximately 590,000 TEUs to 880,000 TEUs while improving operational efficiency across the terminal.

The investment represents a significant vote of confidence in the Seattle-Tacoma gateway and reinforces HMM's commitment to anchoring cargo in the Tacoma Harbor as international trade and vessel sizes continue to grow. By modernizing terminal infrastructure today, HMM and Washington United Terminals are helping ensure the gateway remains competitive, efficient, and prepared for the next generation of global shipping.

"As ports across North America compete for cargo and vessel calls, investments like this demonstrate confidence in the Seattle-Tacoma gateway," said Dick Marzano, NWSA Co-Chair and Port of Tacoma Commission President. "HMM's commitment to Washington United Terminals strengthens Tacoma Harbor's role in global trade while creating the infrastructure needed to support future growth, larger vessels, and reliable service for our customers."

The modernization project includes new cargo-handling equipment that will allow the terminal to accommodate larger container ships, improve cargo flow, and increase overall terminal productivity. The enhancements include the replacement of two aging ship-to-shore cranes and the addition of two rubber-tired gantry cranes as part of a broader modernization effort currently underway at the terminal.

“Our customers depend on reliable, efficient connections to global markets," said Zachary Thomas, Chief Operations Officer/Vice President of Washington United Terminals.  ”These terminal improvements will enhance cargo flow, strengthen supply chain performance, and ensure Washington United Terminals remains well-positioned to meet the evolving needs of international trade long into the future.”

Located in Tacoma Harbor, Washington United Terminals is a critical gateway for trans-Pacific trade and an important hub within HMM's North American network. The investment underscores HMM's confidence in the Pacific Northwest market and highlights the value of continued collaboration between ocean carriers, terminal operators, and port partners to strengthen supply chain connectivity and regional economic growth.

"This investment not only modernizes terminal operations, it reinforces HMM's commitment to anchoring cargo in the NWSA gateway,” stated Ryan Calkins, NWSA Co-Chair and Port of Seattle Commission President. “That's good news for our gateway, our customers, and the thousands of jobs supported by international trade across our region."

These modernization investments build upon efforts throughout the Seattle-Tacoma gateway to modernize infrastructure, improve cargo fluidity, and accommodate larger vessels. Together, these investments are helping position the gateway for long-term success while supporting trade, jobs, and economic opportunity throughout the Pacific Northwest.

The new equipment is expected to be delivered and commissioned by 2028. 

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