U.S.-Flag Cargo Movement on Lakes Up in May

U.S.-flag Great Lakes freighters (lakers) carried 10.1 million tons of dry-bulk cargo in May, an increase of 3.3% compared to the corresponding period last year. The May float was also largely in line with the month’s long-term average.

U.S.-flag lakers moved 4.9 million tons of iron ore in May, 76% of all ore moving on the Lakes/Seaway that month. The 4.9 million tons represent a slight increase compared to a year ago, but a decrease of 3% compared to the month’s long-term average.

Coal shipments in U.S. hulls totaled 1.8 million tons, 69.6% of all coal moving on the Lakes/Seaway in May. The fleet’s May coal total was, however, a decrease of 6.2% compared to a year ago.

The 2.8 million tons of limestone hauled by U.S.-flag lakers in May represent both 79.1% of the trade that month and an increase of 14.6% compared to a year ago.

Through May, the U.S.-flag float stands at 22.6 million tons, a decrease of 7.4% compared to a year ago. Iron ore cargos are down by 7.4%. Coal loadings trail last year by 13.5%. Shipments of limestone are 2.4% off last year’s pace.
 
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