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Tidelands Division

The Tidelands Division is Tacoma Rail’s original operating area. It began in 1914 as a streetcar line operated by the City of Tacoma. In the past, it was known generally as the Tacoma Municipal Belt Line and locally as “the Muni.” 

The Tidelands Division has been freight-only since 1937. Over time, the freight we moved has changed with the region’s industries, from lumber and shipbuilding to chemicals, metals, containers, and other goods. 

Port and Industrial Service

The Tidelands Division serves all four intermodal terminals within the Port of Tacoma: 

  • North Intermodal Yard
  • Pierce County Terminal
  • South Intermodal Yard
  • Washington United Terminals

We also serve the Port’s breakbulk facilities. 

Beyond Port terminals, we provide switching service to over 40 customers. Commodities include automobiles, food, forest and building products, metals, minerals and bulk liquids. 

Aerial view of the Tideflats and Port of Tacoma, featuring shipping containers, cargo ships, and industrial buildings surrounded by water and greenery.

Rate & Routing Information

Alpha Code: TMBL
Numeric Code: 759
Carrier Type: Switch carrier for both BNSF and UP
Junction: Tacoma

TMBL’s rates are generally absorbed by the linehaul carriers, BNSF Railway and Union Pacific, based on the switch absorption provisions of the rate that applies to the linehaul movement. Switching charges and other provisions for the Tidelands division are listed in the TMBL 8807 tariff series/fuel surcharges may apply. 

Demurrage charges and rules are listed in the TMBL 6004 tariff series. TMBL employs a credit/debit system for demurrage.

Tariffs and Charges

View TMBL 8807 Switching Tariffs
View TMBL 6004 Demurrage Tariffs