Vancouver Posts ‘Record-Breaking’ Results

Breakbulk hub Port of Vancouver USA reported "record-breaking" results for 2020, with a 15 percent increase in revenues year-on-year.

The port authority announced revenues of US$50 million, based on handling more than 7 million tonnes of commodities. Breakbulk handling of energy infrastructure components was cited as a leading factor in the port’s record growth.

“Strategic investments, long-term customer partnerships and a diverse product mix positioned the port well to continue to serve as an economic engine for our community during some very difficult times,” said Alex Strogen, chief commercial officer with the Port of Vancouver.


Wind Power Growth

Demand for wind power was a major driver for growth, with the port handling more than 2,700 wind turbines, more than any other West Coast port.
 
“The Port of Vancouver’s proficiency in bulk and breakbulk cargoes allowed the port to leverage its best assets, including the ability to handle large-sized shipments, such as wind energy components. This advantage, along with extensive laydown space for storage, a highly-skilled work force and excellent transportation connections, equipped the port to weather the economic disruption,” a spokesperson said.

The Port of Vancouver USA handles breakbulk cargo via two terminals and serves as the Pacific Northwest’s major consolidation center for breakbulk. It offers access to road and rail networks connections, providing established corridors for overweight and over-dimensional project cargoes.


Positive Outlook

Alongside breakbulk demand for energy components, the port also saw record volumes across other segments, with more than 5.4 million tonnes of grain and some 300,000 tonnes of copper concentrate.

“As we look ahead in 2021, we continue to see opportunity for the further diversification of products handled by the port. Our role as an economic engine for our community continues to grow regardless of the challenges faced,” Strogen said.

The port also handled nearly 90,000 automobiles, including a record single shipment of 3,350 autos received on one vessel in October. local International Longshore and Warehouse Union workers recorded more than 450,000 labor hours on site servicing 360 vessel calls over the course of the year.
 

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