March marked the third consecutive month of growth for the Georgia Ports Authority (GPA), with rail volumes witnessing a notable surge of 22%. Additionally, ITS Logistics has issued its April forecast, highlighting the aftermath of the Baltimore Key Bridge collapse, which has resulted in a “severe” rating for the Atlantic Ocean Region.
GPA
In March, the GPA handled 436,000 TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent container units), marking an 18.5% increase in trade compared to the same month last year, as per its April 10 report. This positive trajectory represents the port’s sustained growth over the past three months.
The total container trade saw an 11% uptick in the first quarter of the calendar year 2024, according to GPA’s statistics. Notably, intermodal rail cargo volumes at the Port of Savannah soared by 22% in March, constituting a 17% increase year-to-date.
Griff Lynch, President and CEO of GPA, expressed gratitude for the continuous trust bestowed by customers upon Georgia Ports, citing the outstanding efforts of GPA’s intermodal team and partners like CSX and Norfolk Southern. Lynch highlighted the efficiency of GPA’s intermodal operations, with cargo reaching inland destinations within a short span of time after crossing the docks.
The Mason Mega Rail Terminal, a crucial component of GPA’s infrastructure, has played a pivotal role in facilitating the expansion of intermodal cargo operations. This state-of-the-art facility boasts minimal rail dwell time and daily departures to major markets such as Dallas, Memphis, and Atlanta. With an investment of $220 million, the terminal has significantly enhanced the port’s rail capacity, leading to expedited intermodal cargo handling and an expanded inland service area.
ITS Logistics
ITS Logistics’ April forecast sheds light on the impact of the Francis Scott Key Bridge incident, which has disrupted port operations and triggered significant demand shifts. Paul Brashier, Vice President of Drayage and Intermodal at ITS Logistics, emphasized the immediate concerns for shippers as freight diversions to alternative ports lead to congestion and operational challenges.
The monthly release of ITS Logistics U.S. Port/Rail Ramp Freight Index provides insights into container and drayage operations across various regions. The recent developments have prompted ITS Logistics to elevate its concern levels for rail regions and the Pacific Ocean region, with the Atlantic Ocean region categorized as “severe” due to freight diversion uncertainties.
Looking ahead, ITS Logistics advocates for enhanced visibility and container management strategies to navigate the current disruptions effectively and prepare for future challenges in the supply chain landscape.
