Brunswick Port Leads U.S. Vehicle Trade
The Port of Brunswick, Georgia, has emerged as the leading U.S. port for vehicles in 2024, achieving record numbers in auto and heavy equipment handling. The port processed a total of 901,912 units, marking a 13.3% increase in autos and a staggering 160% rise in heavy equipment year-over-year. This surge has positioned Colonel’s Island Terminal as the busiest port in the nation for roll-on/roll-off (ro-ro) cargo, with over 2 million tons handled this year. Georgia Ports President Griff Lynch highlighted these achievements during the Brunswick State of the Port event, emphasizing the port’s growing significance in the automotive logistics sector.
Major Infrastructure Improvements and Future Plans
In 2024, the Port of Brunswick completed $262 million in infrastructure upgrades, enhancing its capacity to handle vehicle shipments. These improvements included new warehousing and processing spaces, along with 122 acres dedicated to ro-ro storage. A new rail yard is under construction on Colonel’s Island, which will significantly increase the port’s capacity to export vehicles arriving by rail. Lynch noted that the first phase of this project will boost annual rail capacity from approximately 150,000 autos to over 340,000 by mid-2025. The second phase aims to triple this capacity to 590,000 units.
The port’s strategic location has also benefited from the diversion of vehicle shipments from the Port of Baltimore, which faced disruptions due to the Key Bridge disaster. This shift has contributed to an 11% decline in vehicle shipments at Baltimore, further solidifying Brunswick’s position in the market. Lynch stated that the new rail yard will enhance service to inland factories, making it more cost-effective to transport cargo by rail rather than by truck.
