Port Freeport Reaches Milestone in Vehicle Units Handled

Over the last year, Port Freeport has continued to experience rapid growth, reaching a new milestone of over 106,000 vehicle units handled in partnership with Amports, who offers vehicle processing and terminal management services.

 “What began as a modest facility of about 38 acres and five vessel calls per month, has grown to approximately 75 acres and 12 or more vessel calls per month,” said Port Freeport Executive Director/CEO Phyllis Saathoff. “The Port’s proximity and efficiency to regional and global markets combined with the superior terminal services offered by Amports, has made Port Freeport a hub for vehicle imports and exports.”

 The strategic partnership with Amports allows Port Freeport to provide efficient and consolidated services to multiple carriers, including Glovis USA, Grimaldi Lines, Hoegh Autoliners, Liberty Global Logistics, Sallaum Lines and Wallenius Wilhelmsen, providing shippers with connections to global destinations and American businesses access to global customers.

 “Amports has seen record setting growth by partnering with Port Freeport,” said Amports Chief Operating Officer Ben Buben. “Port Freeport makes it very easy to do business, invites new innovative ideas, and has ample space to handle our current and future customers.”

 Port Freeport has seen an increase of over 80% in both vehicle units and RoRo cargo handled since 2015. Annual vessel calls to Port Freeport have more than doubled in the same period. The completion of Berth 8, expected in 2023, the investments being made with the Freeport Harbor Channel Improvement Project, and the expansion of Velasco Terminal, will allow further growth.

 “The exponential growth in the RoRo business means more good-paying jobs for the men and women in our local community. This type of cargo requires a much larger pool of skilled labor,” Port Freeport Commission Chairman John Hoss said.  “We thank our partners for choosing Port Freeport.”