Facebook Twitter Twitter    Archive | www.aapa-ports.org March 17, 2015
   

Cargo Operations: Georgia

Print Print this Article | Send to Colleague

Georgia Ports’ New Tracking System Speeds Breakbulk Handling

The Georgia Ports Authority (GPA) has instituted a new tracking system designed to expedite the processing of break bulk cargo and provide real-time freight tracking for GPA and its customers.

The general cargo system (GCS) 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, the technology also enables GPA to detect and order deadline cargo as it becomes available at a Savannah rail yard. 

To create the system, GPA assembled a 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 break bulk operation.

The system includes automated communications for advanced shipping notices, rail car 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. Rail car ordering that previously took two hours of manual processing now takes only 15 minutes to complete."

The GPA says the move also greatly reduced manual data entry and data lag, while providing information access for management, administrative and field personnel. GPS aids planning through early notification of incoming trucks and rail cars, as well as the cargo each is carrying.
 

Share Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on LinkedIn