Thunder Bay Port Shipments Remain Strong

The Port of Thunder Bay has had a busy summer season with strong shipments of grain, potash, and general cargo.

As of August 31, 2023, crews at Thunder Bay elevators have loaded an extra 1 million metric tons (MT) of grain compared to the same period in 2022. Total port grain shipments are just shy of the 5-year-average for the period.

The month of August was strong for potash shipments. More than 250,000 MT of potash were shipped from port terminals, surpassing the monthly record set last year. Potash, mined on the Canadian Prairies, is shipped from Thunder Bay primarily by oceangoing ‘salty’ vessels, to destinations in Europe, North Africa, and South America. Port potash volumes hit a 30-year high in 2022 and the 2023 season is on track for a similar outcome.

The port’s general cargo program is going strong this season. Keefer Terminal has had steady inbound vessel traffic during August and the first week of September, with shipments of bulk fertilizer, steel pipe, steel rail, and machinery. The terminal is experiencing its best year to date for steel, with regular shipments continuing through the fall.

Total vessel traffic in the Port of Thunder Bay increased by 50 vessels as of August 31, year-over-year.