GPA posts record month for containers, breakbulk cargo in July

The Port of Savannah saw a 6.8 increase in TEUs while total tonnage increased 13 percent for the calendar year through July, according to the Georgia Ports Authority.    The Georgia Ports Authority (GPA) posted a 10.8 percent increase in TEUs handled for the calendar year through July, up to 2.33 million TEUs, according to recent data.
   The Port of Savannah handled more than 336,000 TEUs in July alone, an 6.8 percent increase from the same month a year ago and the busiest month ever, said GPA.
   Total tonnage for the calendar year through July grew by 13 percent, or 2.37 million tons, to reach 20.67 million tons, said GPA. Breakbulk cargo grew 12.3 percent in July alone, totaling 232,390 tons.
   Savannah’s Ocean Terminal saw large increases in tonnage with lumber doubling from 2,366 tons in July 2016 to 7,702 tons in July 2017. GPA cites a strengthening construction industry as the cause for increased demand in lumber.
   Breakbulk tonnage a Ocean Terminal grew by 22 percent last month to reach a total of 124,150 tons, said GPA. Iron and steel also grew by 10.3 percent to 51,644 tons in July.  
   At East River Terminal in Brunswick, wood pellets used for fuel jumped from zero to 49,011 tons in July 2017 compared to the year prior. The jump encouraged a 75.7 percent growth in overall bulk cargo business at East River, which reached 68,813 tons, said GPA.
   “It is through the incredible efficiency and productivity of GPA employees and the International Longshoremen’s Association – as well as the continued commitment of shippers and customers – that these record volumes are possible,” said GPA Executive Director Griff Lynch. “Georgia’s renewed investments, strong support from Gov. Nathan Deal and state leaders, and superior logistics are encouraging customers to bring more business here.”
   According to a manufacturing report issued by the Institute for Supply Management stated that new orders, production, employment, backlog and exports were all expanding in July compared to June, said GPA.
   “Our July performance underscores the value of our deepwater ports to the nation’s economy,” said GPA Board Chairman Jimmy Allgood. “Our terminals support the exports of our farms and factories, supply components for domestic manufacturing, and ensure the efficiency of retail commerce.”