Virginia Port Battling Truck Congestion

The Port of Virginia exceeded 200,000 total TEU cargo volume for a third consecutive month despite worsening congestion issues at its truck terminals Virginia International Gateway (VIG) and Norfolk International Terminals (NIT). The port moved 76,782 containers by truck in September, which is 13,359 more than what was handled last September. 

“As a result, we’re experiencing congestion at our truck gates and increased turn-times and this is putting a service burden on our motor carriers. The heavy volumes and profitability continue, but our delivery of service to the motor carriers is not acceptable,” John F. Reinhart, CEO and executive director of the Virginia Port Authority said.

“We are pushing our capacity limits at both Virginia International Gateway (VIG) and Norfolk International Terminals (NIT). We’re already working vessels at Portsmouth Marine Terminal, and that move is designed to provide a measure of relief to VIG and NIT, but our truck gates and service time remain an immediate area of focus.”

In September, the port handled 201,113 TEUs, an increase of 8.6 percent or 15,928 TEUs when compared with September 2013. Exports grew by 12 percent, or 12,080 TEUs. In a year-to-date comparison (Jan. – Sept. 2014 vs. Jan. – Sept. 2013) the port is tracking 7.1 percent ahead of the same period last year: 1,759,894 TEUs vs. 1,642,927 TEUs.

“The extended weekend truck gates offered to better manage peak-season volume and the timing of volume incentives in current contracts reduced per-box revenue and had an effect on the month’s operating income,” said Reinhart.

The port has exceeded the 200,000-TEU mark in April, May, July, August and September. In September, the port worked 167 vessels (container, breakbulk and Ro-Ro).