The Northwest Seaport Alliance (NWSA) recently welcomed Emirates Shipping Line (ESL), UWL's carrier partner on the Sun Chief Express service, to Seattle, marking the carrier’s first direct entry into the U.S. market.
A Milestone for Global Connectivity
The inaugural call of the M/V Bright on August 16th highlights ESL’s expansion into the U.S. and further strengthens the Sun Chief Express service as it nears its fourth year of operation. With transit times of just 18 days from Ho Chi Minh City and 21 days from Haiphong, Sun Chief Express provides unmatched speed and reliability at a time when predictability is crucial for global supply chains.
Founded in 2006, ESL adds depth and scale to the service, with an annual capacity of 700,000 TEUs and a robust network calling more than 60 terminals weekly. Their entry into the U.S. market represents a meaningful step toward expanded regional coverage and connectivity between Southeast Asia, Indian Sub-Continent, the Middle East, and the Pacific Northwest.
Proven Reliability Through the NWSA Gateway
Sun Chief Express connects importers and exporters through one of the most efficient gateways in the country. Less congestion and ease of doing business are some of the hallmarks of the PNW compared to other West Coast hubs. In 2024, the service was recognized as the most reliable in the Pacific Northwest by the NWSA, a distinction that reflects both UWL’s commitment to consistency and the NWSA’s dedication to innovation and customer service.
The NWSA’s intermodal connections extend Sun Chief’s benefits far beyond Seattle, providing seamless inland rail service to major markets including Chicago, Memphis, Minneapolis, Kansas City, and the Ohio Valley. Just as importantly, the service supports U.S. exporters by moving agricultural products such as seafood, cherries, potatoes, and proteins to high-demand markets across Southeast Asia.
Building the Future of Trade Together
UWL is proud to continue advancing Sun Chief Express alongside our partners. The addition of Emirates Shipping Lines is a testament to the service’s proven track record and future growth potential. Together, we are shaping a trade lane that not only delivers speed but also reinforces dependable supply chains for customers navigating today’s complex logistics landscape.
As demand for resilient, direct services continues to rise, Sun Chief Express remains committed to delivering speed, reliability, and guaranteed capacity, all through one of the most strategic gateways to the U.S. economy.