HMM is investing in a major modernization programme at Washington United Terminals (WUT) in Tacoma, Washington, aimed at increasing the facility’s annual container-handling capacity by nearly 50% and strengthening its position as a key gateway for the carrier’s US West Coast operations.
The upgrade will increase WUT’s annual cargo-handling capacity from approximately 590,000 TEUs to 880,000 TEUs. The higher capacity will also enable the terminal to accommodate larger container vessels and improve operational efficiency.
As part of the modernization project, WUT has signed a contract with HD Hyundai Samho for four new port cranes. Two ageing ship-to-shore cranes will be replaced, while two additional rubber-tyred gantry cranes will be installed to improve yard operations.
The equipment will be supplied on a turnkey basis, covering design, manufacturing, transportation, installation and commissioning. The crane delivery and modernization work are scheduled for completion by 2028.
WUT, which opened in 1999, covers approximately 510,000 square metres and has a 793-metre berth. The terminal also features an on-dock rail facility capable of handling 26 rail cars simultaneously, providing direct connectivity to inland logistics networks.
The investment reinforces HMM’s long-term commitment to the Seattle-Tacoma gateway, operated by The Northwest Seaport Alliance. The alliance said the modernization will help the gateway handle larger vessels while supporting supply-chain efficiency and maintaining the competitiveness of the Pacific Northwest as a trans-Pacific trade hub.
The expansion comes as HMM continues to invest in port infrastructure alongside fleet expansion, seeking to strengthen its end-to-end logistics capabilities and improve service efficiency for customers on US West Coast routes.