TP Trade Topic U.S. West Coast or East Coast? Why the Answer Is Changing
Lewis Hu
Trans Pacific Trade Lane Manager
Sep 2, 2026
For years, choosing between the U.S. West Coast and East Coast was a fairly straightforward calculation: lower ocean rates
on the West Coast, or a more direct All Water option to the East Coast and Gulf.
But with today’s higher freight rates, Panama Canal restrictions and changing transit times, the numbers are starting to look different.
For some shipments, West Coast + Rail is now a much more competitive option.
Rising ocean rates, Panama Canal restrictions and shifting transit dynamics are making West Coast + Rail an increasingly competitive option for many shipments.
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