The Georgia Ports Authority handles 35 weekly container ship calls in the Port of Savannah, representing one of the best-connected U.S. ports to world markets. For the fiscal year to date (July 1 – Sept. 30), nearly 1.5 million twenty-foot equivalent container units have crossed Savannah’s docks, an increase of 4.7 percent compared to the same period last year. (Photo: Georgia Ports)
SAVANNAH, GA (October 23, 2025) — The Port of Savannah continues its upward momentum, handling 486,000 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) in September — an 8% increase compared to the same month last year. The growth represents an additional 35,280 containers, contributing to a 4.7% year-to-date gain and nearly 1.5 million TEUs moved since July 1.
“We’re focused on maintaining fast, efficient, and reliable operations for our customers,” said Griff Lynch, President and CEO of the Georgia Ports Authority (GPA). “Consistent 50-minute trucker turn times and 22-hour average rail dwell times show our continued commitment to best-in-class service.”
Record Rail Performance Strengthens Inland Connectivity
September marked the busiest month on record for intermodal rail cargo, with 51,235 container lifts, up 21% compared to last year. The Mason Mega Rail Terminal moved 46,782 containers, a 19% increase, while the Appalachian Regional Port set a new record with 4,453 lifts, up 48%.
Since the beginning of the fiscal year, GPA has handled nearly 150,000 rail lifts, further solidifying Savannah’s position as the Southeast’s premier gateway to inland markets.
Efficient Truck Operations Drive Supply Chain Speed
The Port of Savannah recorded 316,889 truck gate transactions in September, with average single-move turn times of 32 minutes and 50 minutes for dual import-export moves — which account for about 80% of gate activity.
Truck drivers serving the port complete an average of six to eight turns daily, among the best rates in the industry. The high rate of dual transactions helps reduce truck trips and emissions, further improving supply chain sustainability.
Brunswick Ro/Ro Cargo Reflects Global Market Adjustments
At the Port of Brunswick’s Colonels Island Terminal, roll-on/roll-off (Ro/Ro) cargo totaled 55,811 units of autos and heavy equipment in September — a 30% decline from last year. The dip reflects global production adjustments and shifting export trends, particularly among luxury automakers in Europe and Asia.
“Market cycles are a normal part of the business,” Lynch noted. “Our focus remains on infrastructure investments like the construction of Berth 4, scheduled for completion in 2027, which will strengthen our customers’ competitiveness in the future.”
About the Georgia Ports Authority
Georgia’s ports in Savannah and Brunswick serve as key gateways to global commerce, connecting to 35 ship calls per week, 42 doublestack trains weekly, and 14,000 daily truck gate moves. Recognized as the top state to do business for 12 consecutive years, Georgia combines logistics strength with strategic infrastructure investments.
Over the past decade, GPA has self-financed $3.2 billion in upgrades and plans to invest another $4.5 billion over the next ten years. As part of its community efforts, GPA is donating $6 million toward workforce housing in nearby port communities.
For more information, visit gaports.com or contact Tom Boyd, Chief Communications Officer, at tboyd@gaports.com or (912) 346-0158.
