Georgia Ports Authority introduces tracking system to expedite breakbulk cargo handling
The Georgia Ports Authority (GPA) has instituted a new tracking system to process breakbulk cargo more quickly, and provide real-time freight tracking for GPA and its customers, the GPA said in a press release.
"The new system means faster service and better communication with our breakbulk customers," said GPA Executive Director Curtis Foltz. "It is another facet of our ongoing effort to improve GPA operations and reduce the transit times of cargo flowing across our docks."
The General Cargo System software shows cargo headed to the Port of Savannah and its current stage in transit. This enables GPA to prepare for and expedite handling of shipments, down to the item level. Offering faster truck turn times and improved cargo visibility for the authority and its customers, the technology also enables GPA to detect and order deadline cargo as it becomes available at a Savannah rail yard.
To create the new General Cargo System, GPA brought together a diverse team of operational, technical, and financial personnel. The system streamlines business, improves communications, and brings technology to the warehouse floor, resulting in a more flexible and efficient breakbulk operation.
The system includes automated communications for advanced shipping notices, railcar availability and stuffing orders, as well as improved on-terminal inventory control.
"Our central aim was to collect shipping data prior to cargo arrival," said Bill Sutton, GPA director of information technology. "GCS strengthens the efficiency of field operations by recording in real time cargo reception, inventory, and stuffing orders. The result has been dramatic time savings. Railcar ordering that previously took two hours of manual processing now takes only 15 minutes to complete."
The move also greatly reduced manual data entry and data lag, while providing information access for management, administrative and field personnel. The new tracking system aids planning through early notification of incoming trucks and railcars, as well as the cargo each is carrying.
Georgia’s deepwater ports and inland barge terminals support more than 352,000 jobs throughout the state annually and contribute $18.5 billion in income, $66.9 billion in revenue and $2.5 billion in state and local taxes to Georgia’s economy. The Port of Savannah handled 8 percent of the U.S. containerized cargo volume and 10.9 percent of all U.S. containerized exports in FY2013.
