North Star Awards Winners

Harbor Freight Tools, a major importer in the United States, strategically chose the Puget Sound region for its new facility in Frederickson, WA. The region offers several advantages, including lower transportation costs from Seattle/Tacoma ports, easy accessibility, intermodal access to inland markets, competitive warehouse lease rates, a skilled workforce, and economic development opportunities. The 782,773-square-foot facility will create approximately 220 jobs, operating two shifts, five days a week. Harbor Freight is actively recruiting for these positions through local events and partnerships.

International Feed, a feed and food ingredients commodity trader with expertise in logistics, was recognized for their remarkable growth in exports via the Seattle-Tacoma gateway.  In 2023, International Feed managed to increase its volume nearly 200%.  This significant growth established its position as one of our Top 15 export customers, not to mention a spot among the JOC Top 100. The company's strategic focus on expanding sales to countries with direct NWSA services, coupled with the NWSA's enhanced reliability and efficiency, contributed to this achievement.

Ocean Network Express was recognized for handling the most container volume and experiencing the largest year-over-year volume increase of all ocean carriers calling at the Seattle-Tacoma gateway, demonstrating its commitment to operational excellence and growth. Ocean Network Express operates as part of THE Alliance group of carriers with regular weekly calls at Husky Terminal and Washington United Terminals in our Tacoma (South) Harbor.

PetroCard, a pioneer in sustainable fuel solutions, has been at the forefront of providing access to cleaner fuels for commercial fleets.  Through partnerships and education with suppliers and early adopters, PetroCard has promoted renewable diesel as a viable alternative to traditional fossil fuels. Renewable diesel offers significant environmental benefits, including up to a 75% reduction in lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions. PetroCard is partnering with the Port of Tacoma to fuel port vehicles with renewable diesel.

Mercer Logistics, a leading supply chain solutions provider, was recognized for its exceptional performance in handling cargo. As the region's only U.S. Customs Centralized Examination Station (CES) operator, Mercer has played a crucial role in facilitating smooth cargo movement through the Pacific Northwest. Mercer demonstrated its commitment to efficiency and customer service by expanding CES facilities, coordinating with CBP for expedited clearance, and implemented innovative solutions to manage detained containers. This dedication has been instrumental to supporting the region's trade and ensuring the timely and reliable movement of goods.