New Record for Subaru Imports at Port of Vancouver USA

The Port of Vancouver USA has achieved a remarkable milestone by setting a new record for the highest number of Subaru imports in a single month. In October, the port processed over 13,500 Japanese vehicles, including a variety of popular Subaru models such as Crosstreks, Foresters, and the all-electric Solterras.

For more than 30 years, Subaru has utilized a 16-hectare area at the port for its vehicle import operations, solidifying its partnership with the port. Last year, the automaker imported a substantial 82,000 vehicles through the port, demonstrating the sustained growth of the collaboration.

Subaru has a target to sell 630,000 new vehicles in the US this year, surpassing its impressive sales figures from the previous year. The company currently manages an annual volume of 675,000 units, with approximately equal distribution between imports and domestically produced vehicles. Of this total, around 337,000 are imports, while 338,000 are manufactured domestically at the Subaru of Indiana Automotive plant in Lafayette, Indiana.

Upon arrival at the Port of Vancouver USA, Auto Warehousing provides essential accessorisation services for the Subaru vehicles, including the installation of sideview mirrors and trailer hitches. United Road Services plays a vital role in transporting the vehicles by truck to dealers throughout the Pacific Northwest.

The port has witnessed a significant boost in rail throughput following the completion of a substantial $250m project. BNSF and Union Pacific railways have direct access to the port, enhancing the efficiency of Subaru’s distribution network. The company has achieved a nearly equal split between rail and road shipping in the US, with 52% of vehicles being shipped by rail and 48% by truck.

The CEO of the port, Julianna Marler, expressed her satisfaction with the significant milestone and its positive impact on the local economy. In the realm of logistics and distribution, Lisa Kline, the Vice-President of Vehicle Planning and Logistics at Subaru, has been diligently working towards optimizing the company’s network. Kline emphasized the company’s resilient approach and strong partnerships with suppliers and logistics providers, including rail providers, in adapting to evolving business conditions.

Subaru has recently expanded its collaboration with Kinaxis, a leading provider of supply chain management solutions, to enhance its supply chain operations. This strategic partnership aims to bolster demand forecasting, enhance inventory optimization, and improve overall operational efficiency through the integration of cutting-edge artificial intelligence and human intelligence.

In conclusion, the exceptional performance of the Port of Vancouver USA in handling Subaru imports, coupled with Subaru’s strategic initiatives to optimize its distribution network, exemplifies the successful collaboration between the two entities and their commitment to sustained growth and efficiency in the automotive industry.