For productivity, reliability and cost efficiency, the Port of Tacoma was rated as the top U.S. seaport in a recent reader’s poll conducted by Marine Digest and Cargo Business News, a national maritime industry trade publication.

Preference for Port of Tacoma was driven by capital investments in new marine terminals, technology and inland transportation infrastructure.

“One of our goals is to be the most efficient and reliable intermodal gateway in North America,” said Port of Tacoma Executive Director Timothy J. Farrell. “As an operator of marine terminals and on-dock intermodal yards, we know what it takes to achieve this goal. We also know the daily challenges that our customers face in their operations. As an operating port, we speak their language.”

In planning for the future, Farrell explained the Port focuses on cargo forecasting, infrastructure planning, technology and managing regulatory framework. “The result of our operating knowledge and forward thinking has been cargo growth,” he stated. “Between 1998 and year-end 2004, our container volume grew by 52 percent without adding a single new steamship line. That’s because we make sure our customers are treated well and that they have room for expansion.”

The Marine Digest and Cargo Business News reader’s poll also ranked ocean carriers, air cargo carriers, rail carriers and marine terminal operators.

Results of the Poll are published in the magazine’s January 2005 edition.