Journalists’ Reference Guide

Logistics & Distribution Center

Greater Seattle is strategically located as a sea and air gateway to, from and throughout the United States. With the rise of transportation and high technology, Greater Seattle has become a competitor in the global economy. Only a nine hour flight from both Tokyo and London, Greater Seattle is strategically located in the new economy. Our marine ports are closer to Asia than any other major port on the U.S. West Coast. The Ports of Seattle and Tacoma combined are the second-largest container transshipment point in the United States. The region is a center for distribution and logistics activities, with first class ports, freight forwarders, customs brokers and the rest of the services that facilitate the free flow of goods. Collectively, Greater Seattle ports have about 800 acres of container terminals, along with two grain terminals. The region also has many distribution facilities, several bulk terminals that handle a wide range of cargo and multiple break bulk facilities.

The region is also home to about 10 million cubic feet of cold storage facilities. More than $50 billion worth of goods flowed through Greater Seattle’s ports to and from the world. This incredible trade volume in a state of 5.9 million people, means that trade is our livelihood. Because of all the port activities, an extensive support services industry abounds in the region. There are more than 100 maritime law and fisheries attorneys operating in the region as well as law firms specializing in all facets of international trade. In addition, numerous customs brokers and freight forwarders provide logistics services to the maritime industry in Greater Seattle. Local financial and accounting companies also offer expertise in the maritime industry and in international trade.