Huntsville Port Achieves Remarkable Growth in Intermodal Transportation for the Second Year

Huntsville Port Celebrates Growth in Intermodal Efficiency

The Port of Huntsville has recently announced outstanding results for 2024, marking its second consecutive year of growth in intermodal transportation. This increase highlights the port's vital role in the regional economy, especially in light of ongoing global supply chain challenges. With more than one million rail lifts recorded, the port has not only surged past previous figures but also attained its most successful year since 2008.

In 2024 alone, the port experienced a striking 22.3% increase in rail lifts, totaling 33,745 lifts compared to 27,597 in 2023. This accomplishment has drawn attention, showcasing Huntsville's growing importance as a key logistics hub in North Alabama.

Joey Ceci, Board Chair of the Port of Huntsville, expressed enthusiasm for this achievement, stating, "More than 400 companies trust our capabilities to provide timely and economical service that is vital to their operations. Phenomenal, double-digit growth like we have seen for the past two years validates this for us and encourages us to be an even better partner in the years to come."

The International Intermodal Center (IIC) at the port has been linking North Alabama and South Central Tennessee with world-class intermodal services since 1986. As the only inland port in the area, it specializes in the reception, transfer, storage, and distribution of both international and domestic cargo using air, rail, and highway transport.

The center is further enhanced by a five-mile rail spur connected to major rail lines, allowing efficient access to both East and West coast ports in the United States. This seamless connectivity is essential for businesses looking to transport goods quickly and effectively.

Shawn Tureman, Vice President of Automotive Intermodal Marketing for Norfolk Southern Corporation, noted that, "North Alabama continues to emerge as one of the nation's fastest-growing regions—with thriving industries from aerospace to automotive. Our results in 2024 highlight sustained momentum despite global supply chain disruptions."

Emphasizing Norfolk Southern's commitment to the area, Tureman added that the partnership with the Port of Huntsville has facilitated improved access for Alabama and Tennessee businesses to major U.S. seaports. This collaboration aims at providing cost-effective intermodal solutions that enhance supply chain efficiencies.

The port features state-of-the-art amenities, including a rail cargo terminal, U.S. Customs and Border Protection on-site, and Foreign Trade Zone No. 83. In addition, it boasts 436,000 square feet of air cargo warehousing and distribution facilities, including 35,000 square feet of cold storage. Conveniently located alongside I-565, the port ensures unobstructed access to the interstate highway system.

Butch Roberts, CEO of the Port of Huntsville, highlighted the importance of collaboration with Norfolk Southern and various steamship companies to achieve consistent rail traffic growth. He stated, "We have invested $230 million in enhancing our air freight infrastructure and another $70 million in improving our rail intermodal facilities. A prosperous future for HSV is ensured by these developments as well as the availability of first-rate facilities."

For 39 years, the International Intermodal Center has prominently connected Huntsville and the Valley region with global markets. Serving a diverse clientele, it has stimulated local economic growth and development.

"Our partners in local government and community organizations have enabled us to create economic growth and prosperity that many cities desire. We look forward to continuing our efforts to enhance growth and employment opportunities across the region," Roberts concluded.

About the Port of Huntsville

The Port of Huntsville is composed of multiple operating entities, such as Huntsville International Airport, the International Intermodal Center, and the Jetplex Industrial Park. Managed by an Airport Authority with a five-member board, the port also features several contract operations. Its significant infrastructure includes two parallel runways, facilitating simultaneous operations under instrument conditions. With dedicated services from U.S. Customs and a comprehensive connectivity system, the Port of Huntsville serves as a crucial logistics hub, continually supporting regional businesses and enhancing its service offerings to meet the demands of the ever-evolving transportation landscape.

For more information, visit portofhuntsville.com.