Clean Truck Program requirements are now in effect at domestic container terminals in Seattle and Tacoma. No changes for clean trucks currently operating international terminals.
As of January 1, 2026, all trucks serving our domestic container terminals must have an active RFID tag and have a 2007 or newer engine, or a certified equivalent emission control system. Your RFID must be updated with your current driver information, VIN, company name, SCAC and license plate information.
No further changes are planned for clean trucks (2007 or newer engine) currently operating NWSA international terminals.
How to purchase and register your RFID tag
Your RFID tag must be fully registered in eModal with your truck’s current information. For any RFID questions, visit eModal's online help center.
STEP 1: Register your company at eModal.com.
STEP 2: Add driver and truck information to the eModal system.
STEP 3: Purchase an RFID tag. Each tag costs $103, plus additional fees, and must be purchased online with a debit or credit card at eModal.com. (NOTE: Tags take at least 5 business days.)
STEP 4: Once you receive the tag, register it at eModal.com. (The tags must be registered for them to work.)
STEP 5: Install your tag. Your account must be updated with your new VIN and license plate number.
*** When entering the terminals, please make sure you have only one RFID tag in your truck. If you have more than one tag, you could be subject to a red light and be turned away at the gate.***
Truck Scrap and Replacement Program
Since 2015, the NWSA has scrapped over 450 pre-2007 engine trucks and replaced them with modern diesel trucks to reduce truck emissions.
No scrapping funding is currently available. Stay tuned for future opportunities through our Clean Air Quarterly newsletter or our Trucker News and Updates.
Clean Truck Program stickers
Clean Truck Program stickers are no longer required for entry into NWSA terminals. See instructions above for how to purchase an RFID tag.
Background
Starting in 2019, the NWSA has required that all trucks serving our international container terminals must have a 2007 or newer engine. This requirement, now in effect at domestic container terminals as of January 2026, is a part of the Clean Truck Program, one of several initiatives the NWSA and ports of Seattle and Tacoma have undertaken to improve air quality and greenhouse gas impacts of our gateway.
The Clean Truck Program helps the NWSA advance the Northwest Ports Clean Air Strategy, which was adopted by the ports of Tacoma, Seattle and Vancouver, B.C. to continuously reduce port-related diesel and greenhouse gas emissions. To reach these shared goals, the ports and industry have already invested in and adopted new equipment and fuels that reduce emissions from cargo-handling equipment, rail, harbor craft, ships and trucks.
The Clean Truck Program has resulted in significant air quality improvements and emission reduction benefits. Diesel Particulate Matter (DPM) emissions associated with NWSA drayage trucks, which account for 6% of the DPM emissions from seaport activities, have decreased by 89% since 2005 and by 41% since 2016. More data on maritime-related emissions are available in the 2021 Puget Sound Maritime Air Emissions Inventory.
The Northwest Seaport Alliance Managing Members have committed to maintaining the current standards (2007 engine or equivalent) to create some stability for the hundreds of independent business owners who service the gateway.