The Columbia Rivers Shippers Association is one of the oldest ocean shippers' associations in the United States, established as a non-profit corporation in 1986.  At that time, the Port of Portland and locally-based importers and exporters recognized the need to assure continued competitive vessel service to the Lower Columbia River.  CRSA provides a vehicle for regional importers and exporters to pool their cargo and offer it to ocean carriers providing quality vessel service, either through direct vessel calls in the Columbia River or equalized rates.