News Summary

The Georgia Ports Authority announced impressive growth in container movements, with 5.7 million TEUs processed in the year, marking an 8.6% increase over the previous year. This growth signals a strong performance at the Port of Savannah, reflecting investments in infrastructure including new ship-to-shore cranes. Upcoming projects aim to further enhance capacity and efficiency, positioning the port as a key player in U.S. logistics. With continued strategic development, the GPA is poised for ongoing success in adapting to changing global trade patterns.

Port of Savannah Sees Record Growth in Container Movement

Savannah, GA – The Georgia Ports Authority (GPA) achieved a significant milestone in fiscal year 2025 by moving 5.7 million twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs), marking an 8.6% increase from the previous year. This growth translates to an additional approximately 450,000 TEUs over fiscal year 2024.

The Port of Savannah, which was the primary driver behind this surge, experienced its second busiest year in history, with a remarkable 410,400 TEUs processed in June 2025 alone. On average, the port moved over 475,000 TEUs per month throughout the fiscal year, with particularly busy months in March, April, and May, where each exceeded 500,000 TEUs.

Griff Lynch, the president and CEO of GPA, noted that the increased activity has helped the Georgia ports expand their market share along the U.S. East Coast. This robust performance is indicative of the port’s strategic efforts and investments in infrastructure development.

Infrastructure Investments and Improvements

During fiscal year 2025, the GPA invested $470 million in infrastructure projects aimed at enhancing capacity and efficiency. Among the notable initiatives was the addition of eight new ship-to-shore cranes at the Port of Savannah, which are recognized as the largest on the East Coast. Enhancements at the Port of Brunswick also included increased warehousing and storage capabilities.

Future projects include a $100 million new berth at Brunswick’s Colonels Island Terminal, expected to open in 2027. Additionally, the ongoing redevelopment of the Ocean Terminal in Savannah aims to boost annual capacity by 1.5 million TEUs. This project will also feature a new overpass to segregate terminal truck traffic from local neighborhoods, further facilitating operational efficiency.

Container Volume at the Port of Brunswick

While the Port of Brunswick maintained its container volume at 870,775 units of autos and heavy equipment, reflecting a steady output compared to an all-time record in fiscal year 2024, it is crucial to note how the ports are adapting to changing market demands.

Long-Term Growth Projections

The GPA has observed a 4.5% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) in Savannah TEUs from fiscal year-to-date 2025 compared to fiscal year-to-date 2016, significantly outpacing the overall U.S. container port market CAGR of 2.7% during the same period. This growth is a strong indicator of the port’s expansive capabilities and strategic positioning in the market.

Looking forward, the GPA plans to invest an additional $4.5 billion in capacity improvements over the coming decade. In the last ten years, close to $3.2 billion has already been dedicated to various port infrastructure projects, which have proven essential for adapting to increasing global trade dynamics.

Future Developments

Upcoming projects scheduled for completion by 2027 include upgrades to two significant ship berths at Ocean Terminal and the addition of three planned berths at Savannah Container Terminal between 2030 and 2034. Such projects underscore the GPA’s commitment to meeting the demands of an evolving trade landscape.

The continued success of the Georgia Ports Authority can be attributed to robust collaboration among local, county, and state authorities in tapping into new business opportunities. Trends indicate that shifting trade patterns from Asia and India will provide further advantages for Georgia ports in the years to come, positioning them as pivotal players in global logistics and trade.

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Additional Resources

• Grice Connect: Port of Savannah Sees Record Growth
• Wikipedia: Port of Savannah
• WTOC: New Permacold Storage Facility Breaks Ground
• Google Search: Georgia Ports Authority
• WRDW: GA Ports Authority Responds to Tariffs
• Google Scholar: Georgia Ports
• Savannah Now: Georgia’s Ports Continue to Grow
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Harbor
• Maritime Professional: Georgia Ports Container Trade
• Google News: Container Trade

Author: STAFF HERE SAVANNAH WRITER

SAVANNAH STAFF WRITER The SAVANNAH STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESavannah.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Savannah, Chatham County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Savannah Music Festival, St. Patrick's Day Parade, and Savannah Jazz Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce and United Way of the Coastal Empire, plus leading businesses in aerospace, education, and logistics that power the local economy such as Gulfstream Aerospace, Savannah College of Art and Design, and Colonial Group. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAtlanta.com and HEREAugusta.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.