Georgia Ports celebrates truckers, highlights industry

The Georgia Ports Authority (GPA) is honoring truckers during National Trucker Appreciation Week to recognize the vital role they play in the global supply chain. “Our partners in the trucking industry are the critical link between our global vessel services and our domestic supply chain,” said Griff Lynch, GPA President and CEO.

To celebrate the day, GPA employees will be handing out safety gloves, water bottles and chicken sandwiches at the truck gates at the Garden City Terminal at the Port of Savannah. Lynch stressed the importance of keeping trucks running smoothly, noting that the efficiency of the Port of Savannah allows drivers to complete up to eight truck turns per day, compared to just two per day at Southern California terminals.

Savannah is able to handle 80% of truck traded import and export container movements in both directions, significantly reducing truck trips, minimizing diesel emissions, and increasing driver profitability. In July and August, truck turn times were as low as 34 minutes for single container movements and 54 minutes for two-way movements.

The Georgia Ports Authority will also invest $4.2 billion in infrastructure projects over the next decade to increase terminal capacity, berth space and intermodal connectivity. Additionally, Georgia Governor Brian Kemp has allocated $1.5 billion for state transportation infrastructure, including 18 projects dedicated to improving freight transportation. Notable projects in Savannah include the Brampton Highway Connector and the I-16/I-95 Improvements Project, both scheduled for completion in 2026.

Georgia Ports remains committed to improving the trucking experience and ensuring cargo moves quickly and efficiently throughout the state and beyond.