Despite being the leading West Coast auto port, a 10-year high in break bulk imports and strong grain exports, new container business remains elusive.
While the Port of Portland touts a 10-year high in non-containerized (break bulk) imports, strong grain exports and an established position as the leading West Coast auto port, it has not shown significant gains in the lucrative container business. However, two container carriers signed long-term leases with the port in 2005, and if proponents succeed in deepening the Columbia River channel, Portland might see some of the busier container traffic enjoyed by larger West Coast ports, such as Los Angeles and Tacoma.
— Brandon Sawyer
