Port of Portland to Close Terminal 6: Major Financial Losses Lead to Shipping Shutdown

Terminal 6 Closure and Financial Losses 

The Port of Portland has announced that it will shut down its container shipping operations at Terminal 6 by October 1, 2024. This decision follows over $30 million in financial losses over the past three years. The closure is expected to have widespread repercussions, affecting hundreds of jobs and businesses across Oregon, Washington, and Idaho, which will need to reroute their shipping through other West Coast ports, such as Tacoma and Seattle. This shift will likely lead to increased costs for businesses, with additional expenses estimated at $150 to $300 per container for transportation. 

Impact on Regional Economy and Goods Movement 

The closure of Terminal 6 poses a significant setback to the regional economy, disrupting the transportation of various goods, including toys, agricultural products, seafood, and retail items. Despite attempts to find a third-party operator to manage the terminal, ongoing labor disputes and inadequate state support led the port's leadership to cease container shipping operations. This development has broader implications, as Terminal 6 served as a vital gateway for goods reaching the central United States. 

State Support and Broader Implications 

Port authorities have partially blamed state lawmakers for not providing sufficient support to stabilize the terminal's operations. Port officials noted that they sought state funding but did not receive enough to continue operating. The closure of Terminal 6 may lead to increased trucking and train traffic, raising concerns about congestion and environmental impact. 

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Call for Further Discussions and Future Options 

The Port of Portland recognizes the broader impact of this decision and calls for continued dialogue and investment to establish a financially sustainable model for container shipping in Oregon. Although container shipping will cease at Terminal 6, the port remains committed to exploring future options for container shipping within the state. The ripple effects of this closure on businesses, jobs, and the regional economy are expected to be significant, underscoring the importance of continued investment and collaboration among state authorities and industry stakeholders. 

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