U.S.Cargo Movement on Lakes Up in June

U.S.-flag Great Lakes freighters (lakers) carried 10.1 million tons of dry-bulk cargo in June, a virtual repeat of the preceding month, and an increase of 2.3% compared to the corresponding period last year. The June float was, however, down 2.9% from the month’s long-term average.

U.S.-flag lakers moved 4.6 million tons of iron ore in June, 76.1% of all ore moving on the Lakes/Seaway that month. The 4.6 million tons represent a 2-percent decrease compared to a year ago, and a drop of 2.6% compared to the month’s long-term average.

Coal shipments in U.S. hulls totaled 2 million tons, an increase of 18% compared to a year ago, but a decrease of 12% compared to the month’s long-term average.

The 3 million tons of limestone hauled by U.S.-flag lakers in June represent 82.1% of the trade month and a repeat of a year ago.

Through June, the U.S.-flag float stands at 32.7 million tons, a decrease of 4.6% compared to a year ago. Iron ore cargos are down by 6%. Coal loadings trail last year by 4.5%. Shipments of limestone are 1.6% off last year’s pace.

Lake Carriers’ Association represents 17 American companies that operate 57 U.S.-flag vessels on the Great Lakes that carry the raw materials that drive the nation’s economy: iron ore and fluxstone for the steel industry, aggregate and cement for the construction industry, coal for power generation, as well as salt, sand and grain. Collectively, these vessels can transport more than 115 million tons of cargo per year.