The Northwest Seaport Alliance (NWSA) and Husky Terminal welcomed the first vessel under the revised FP2 service rotation at Tacoma on 9 May.
The updated service now calls Tacoma before Vancouver, strengthening the gateway’s position for discretionary cargo and faster inland delivery.
The inaugural vessel, ONE Owl, demonstrated the speed advantages of the Tacoma gateway. Cargo moved quickly from vessel discharge to rail at the NWSA-operated North Intermodal Yard.
The first train was loaded within hours of the vessel’s arrival, while all import rail cargo was loaded within 48 hours of discharge.
According to NWSA, the cargo is expected to reach Chicago before the vessel arrives at its second port call in Vancouver.
The operation involved coordination between Husky Terminal, both Class I railroads and ILWU Locals 22, 23 and 98.
The revised FP2 rotation positions Tacoma as an earlier US entry point for transpacific cargo. The change increases discretionary cargo volumes while improving transit times to Midwest markets.
“This operation shows what a fully aligned first port of call can deliver,” said Ryan Calkins, Port of Seattle Commission President and NWSA Co-Chair.
“We’re reducing unnecessary dwell and putting cargo on rail only hours after arrival.”
Dick Marzano, Port of Tacoma Commission President and NWSA Co-Chair, said the new rotation strengthens cargo flows and supports jobs across the supply chain.
“When cargo flows seamlessly from ship to rail, it enables us to provide more consistent, predictable service into inland markets like Chicago,” said Dustin Stoker, CEO of Husky Terminal.
BNSF Railway also highlighted the role of close coordination between all partners in improving cargo flow and rail performance through Tacoma.
