Port Marks Third Highest Container Volume on Record

In a softening market, the Port of Mobile achieved its third-highest container volume month since the terminal opened in 2008. The Alabama Port Authority reported moving 53,608 TEUs in March, a remarkable 27% increase from the previous year.

“The Port’s ability to have one of its best ever months while the rest of the market is experiencing headwinds is a testament to our strength,” said Alabama Port Authority Director & CEO John Driscoll. “Our connectivity and efficiency is second to none, and businesses around the world are taking notice. We are looking forward to additional success and opportunity for the customers we serve across Alabama, America, and the world.”

Click here to read the Alabama Port Authority’s press release on this milestone.

Economic Impact

Meanwhile, Governor Kay Ivey announced the Port of Mobile’s economic impact on Alabama’s economy in 2022 totals a whopping $98.3 billion, an increase of roughly $13 billion from the previous year’s impact.

The Alabama Port Authority commissioned the economic impact report, which covers calendar year 2022 (the most recent year that full data is available), showing the tremendous growth at the Port.

The report also showed the Port of Mobile supports 351,359 jobs in Alabama, amounting to $22.5 billion in income across all 67 counties.

Click here to read more about the port’s economic impact across the state.

National and Regional Recognition

The Alabama Port Authority has been ranked second among the top 10 fastest-growing U.S. ports over the last decade by Forbes Magazine. This accolade reflects the port’s significant contribution to regional and national trade.

Strategic Infrastructure Investments

To sustain and further this growth, substantial investments are being made in the port’s infrastructure. The American Journal of Transportation recently featured the ongoing deepening and widening project of Mobile Harbor. With over $1.5 billion invested in the channel and terminal, this project will increase the harbor’s depth from 45 feet to 50 feet by mid-2025, making it the deepest container terminal berthing along the Gulf of Mexico. These enhancements will elevate the port’s annual throughput capacity to 1 million TEUs, with a target of 2.5 million TEUs upon full completion.

The Alabama Port Authority says the deepening and widening project sets the Mobile Harbor up to become the top container terminal in the Gulf of Mexico.

Future Growth and Development

The future of Mobile’s port looks promising with continued expansion efforts. The development of Alabama’s third intermodal container transfer facility (ICTF) in Decatur, in partnership with CSX Transportation, is underway. This will complement existing ICTFs in Mobile and Montgomery, improving logistical efficiency across the state.

Other planned investments include the construction of an interterminal connector bridge for on-dock rail access at the Mobile container terminal and the development of the South Alabama Logistics Park.

Opportunities for Investors

For economic development investors, Mobile offers vast opportunities. The South Alabama Logistics Park (SALP) exemplifies the region’s commitment to supporting future growth with Class A industrial space. With Mobile’s logistical advantages, including access to rail, ship, barge, truck and air, the area is well-positioned to compete with any market.

Click here to learn more about the South Alabama Logistics Park (SALP).

Our Thought Bubble:

The Port of Mobile’s recent successes and ongoing investments signal robust future growth. The strategic infrastructure enhancements and recognition as a top container port underscore Mobile’s potential as a major economic hub.

Investors looking for promising opportunities in the logistics and transportation sectors will find Mobile, Alabama, a compelling destination.