Georgia Ports Set Monthly Volume Records

The US East Coast ports of Savannah and Brunswick set all-time records for both container volumes and total tonnage in May, according to the Georgia Ports Authority (GPA).

GPA had moved more than 338,000 twenty foot equivalent unit containers (TEUs), a 16.4 percent increase, and 2.9 million tons of freight, a 9.6 percent jump.

“Strong performances at GPA’s five deep water terminals, including bulk cargoes and containerized freight, contributed to the growth,” said GPA Executive Director Curtis Foltz.

Colonel’s Island Terminal in Brunswick improved by 40.2 percent (49,575 tons), largely on expansion in soybean meal. A total of 172,825 tons of bulk and breakbulk cargo moved across Colonel’s Island docks in May.

Across all terminals, bulk cargo grew by 60 percent (105,820 tons) in May, to reach 282,613 tons.

“Our ports are a vital link to global markets for Georgia exports, with forest products playing an important role in the state’s economy,” said GPA Vice Chairman James Allgood.

“In addition to wood pellets used as renewable fuel, the GPA handles forest-derived exports including wood pulp, paper, lumber and cellulose fibers.”

Image: GPA/Stephen Morton