Issue link: http://read.uberflip.com/i/993758
47 USMX PORT ASSOCIATION MEMBERS Roll On/Roll Off As the number one port in the U.S. for handling farm and construction machinery, the Port of Baltimore had a healthy four percent increase in ro/ro tonnage in 2017. Baltimore's success in this commodity stems from many factors, including a unique geographic location as the closest east coast port to the Midwest, a large group of competing carriers, and an unrivaled quality program that brings together all the key players in the ro/ro supply chain. The Port of Baltimore's strong reputation for efficiency, quality and labor are all main factors in encouraging shippers and carriers to use Baltimore for their ro/ro cargo. Breakbulk An eight percent increase sparked a good year for breakbulk at the Port of Baltimore. Much of this was due to natural gas pipe line projects and the heat recovery steam generator market. Baltimore also handles wind turbines, transformers, locomotives, refinery and energy production equipment. Two heavy lift cranes and enhanced on-dock rail capabilities allow direct discharge on and off a ship. Baltimore's Dundalk Marine Terminal upgraded another direct-to-rail berth re- cently that includes upgraded weight-to-axel capabilities. Also in use are three heavy lift pads with a capacity of 32.5 tons per axle per pad. Cruise With more than 210,000 passengers served, the Port of Baltimore continues to prove it is a popular cruise port for people up and down the East Coast and into the Midwest. Carnival and Royal Caribbean, two of the world's best known and successful cruise lines, sail from Baltimore year-round to the Bahamas, Bermuda, Caribbean and New England/Canada. Baltimore's cruise terminal is wonderfully positioned right off busy Interstate 95 allowing for very easy driving access. Several improvements made to the cruise terminal will enhance a passenger's overall cruise experience including new ticket kiosks, carpeting, VIP lounge, and expanded restroom facilities.