Focus on the Pallet Sector
Pacific and Mountain States Drive Robust Export Activity
The five Pacific States, including California, Oregon, Washington, Alaska and Hawaii, and the eight Mountain states, including Arizona, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Utah and Wyoming, play a pivotal role in the nation's export economy. Collectively, these states contribute significantly to the U.S.'s international trade, showcasing a diverse array of products and robust relationships with key global markets.
From a pallet perspective, it is important to keep in mind that the export market is far from homogenous. While agriculture, food, and beverage exports will be more often associated with standard HT wood pallets, high-value products such as electronics, aerospace components, and some mineral shipments, for example, are more closely associated with custom packaging. And for goods such as bulk exports or assembled aircraft, pallets and wood packaging can be a non-factor. That said, here are the export leaders in the Western United States.
California stands out as a powerhouse in exports. In 2024, the state exported goods valued at approximately $183 billion, making it the second-highest exporting state in the nation. Leading export categories included computer and electronic products, transportation equipment, and machinery. In 2023, California's agricultural sector also made a substantial impact, with almonds leading at $4.7 billion in foreign sales, followed by dairy products at $3.2 billion, and pistachios at $2.2 billion. California's export destinations include Mexico, Canada, China, and Japan.
Washington is another significant contributor, ranking 9th among U.S. states. Its exports totaled approximately $57.8 billion in 2024. Washington’s export portfolio is dominated by transportation equipment, particularly aircraft and related parts, reflecting the presence of major aerospace manufacturers. Primary trading partners include China, Canada, and Japan.
Arizona reported exports worth around $34.2 billion in 2024. The state's top export categories were electronic equipment, machinery, and minerals. Mexico emerged as Arizona's leading trading partner, accounting for a significant portion of its exports.
Oregon's export economy is robust, with total exports exceeding $34 billion in 2024. The state's leading exports are computer and electronic products, particularly semiconductors. Major destinations for Oregon's exports include China, Canada, and Japan.
Utah reported exports of approximately $18 billion in 2024. The state's export portfolio features primary metal manufacturing, including gold and other precious metals. Key trading partners include the United Kingdom, Canada, and Hong Kong.
New Mexico has become a growing export sector, with total exports amounting to approximately $12 billion in 2024. The state's exports are diversified, with significant contributions from computer and electronic products and chemicals. Mexico is the predominant destination, accounting for about 70% of New Mexico's exports.
Colorado's goods exports totaled $10.5 billion in 2024. The state's leading export categories were food and kindred products, accounting for $2.3 billion, followed by computer and electronic products at $2.1 billion, and machinery (excluding electrical) at $1.1 billion. The top destinations for Colorado's exports were Mexico, Canada, China, South Korea, and Malaysia.
Nevada's exports totaled around $10.4 billion in 2024, with top products including gold, electronic equipment, and gaming machinery. Switzerland, India, and Canada are among the leading destinations for Nevada's exports.
Alaska exported goods valued at $5.9 billion in 2024. The state's exports are heavily centered around natural resources, including seafood and minerals. Key markets for Alaska's exports are China, Japan, and South Korea.
Idaho's exports were valued at about $4.2 billion in 2024, with leading products being semiconductors, agricultural products, and chemicals. Canada, Taiwan, and Mexico are primary markets for Idaho's exports.
Montana exported goods worth approximately $2.4 billion in 2024. Top export categories included petroleum, coal, and agricultural products. Canada is the dominant destination for Montana's exports.
Wyoming reported exports totaling approximately $2 billion in 2024. The state's leading export products were chemicals, machinery, and minerals. Canada and Brazil are significant trading partners for Wyoming.
Hawaii's export economy, though smaller in comparison, contributed around $461 million in 2024. Key exports included aircraft parts, optical and medical instruments, and agricultural products. Japan, Australia, and China are among the top destinations for Hawaii's exports.
Collectively, these thirteen Pacific and Mountain states exemplify the diverse and dynamic nature of the U.S. export economy. Their varied product offerings and strategic global partnerships bolster local economies and contribute significantly to the nation's trade balance.
April 2025