The Port of Savannah moved 333,058 TEUs in March, setting a single-month record that surpassed its previous high set in October 2014 by more than 21,000 TEUs. (The term TEU stands for twenty-foot equivalent container units and is the standard measurement for cargo capacity.)

The Georgia Ports Authority, which oversees the Port of Savannah, increased containerized cargo in March by 27.8% compared with the same month a year ago, representing an increase of 72,499 TEUs.

"A 28% increase in container volume shows the level of trust cargo owners have in our efficient ports, and translates into jobs for Georgia and the U.S. Southeast," said GPA board chairman James Walters.

To handle the increase in cargo, GPA is increasing capacity at the Garden City Terminal of the Port of Savannah. A new truck gate will be constructed and 30 rubber-tired gantry cranes are being purchased, bringing the total to 146 RTGs.

March capped off an active third quarter, which saw a 15.3% increase in TEU volumes for the fiscal year to date. In a nine month period, the GPA moved 2.66 million TEUs, an increase of 352,381 compared to the same period last year.

"We are moving record volumes while maintaining excellent service levels for our customers," said Curtis Foltz, GPA executive director. "Our March numbers have once again demonstrated the scale, flexibility and efficiency of the Garden City Terminal. Freight handling remained fluid, even with demand well above forecasts."