The Georgia Ports Authority (GPA) officially opened its Gainesville Inland Port on May 4, 2026. Since its launch, the facility has been actively processing trains and trucks, initiating a direct daily rail connection between Northeast Georgia's industrial center and the Port of Savannah. This development, undertaken in partnership with Norfolk Southern, provides manufacturers in the region with an integrated rail pathway to Savannah's extensive shipping network.
This new inland port is designed to improve the efficiency of cargo transportation by shifting truck traffic from congested highways to rail. By offering a direct rail link, it aims to reduce transit times and operational costs for businesses moving goods to and from the Port of Savannah.
For freight forwarders and shippers, this new service offers a more efficient and potentially cost-effective option for moving containers between Northeast Georgia and the Port of Savannah. It could lead to reduced drayage costs and improved transit reliability, especially for high-volume cargo. The daily service frequency provides consistent capacity, which can help in planning and optimizing supply chains. This infrastructure enhancement is expected to alleviate road congestion and provide a more sustainable logistics solution.
The GPA anticipates that the Gainesville Inland Port will significantly boost the region's economic competitiveness by offering enhanced logistics capabilities and supporting industrial growth.
