Appalachian Regional Port Shatters November Records, Defying National Intermodal Slowdown

CHATSWORTH, GA – The Appalachian Regional Port (ARP) has reported its busiest November on record, handling 3,876 containers for a surge of nearly 35% year-over-year. This significant growth stands in stark contrast to broader national trends, which saw mixed U.S. rail intermodal volumes and a general decline in U.S.-bound imports during the same period, cementing the inland terminal’s status as a critical regional logistics hub.

The Appalachian Regional Port, an inland rail terminal located near Chatsworth, Georgia, announced its record-breaking performance for November, underscoring its escalating importance in the southeastern U.S. supply chain. The nearly 1,000-container gain over the previous year highlights accelerating adoption by regional shippers. This momentum is also reflected in the port’s fiscal year performance; through the first five months of FY2026 (July-November 2025), the ARP has handled 20,030 containers, a 20% increase from the same period a year ago. The facility handled a total of over 46,000 containers in the recently concluded fiscal year 2025.

Operating as a joint effort between the Georgia Ports Authority (GPA), CSX, Murray County, and the state of Georgia, the ARP provides a direct, daily rail link to the Port of Savannah’s Garden City Terminal. This intermodal connection is a core component of its value proposition, offering a powerful alternative to long-haul trucking. For every container moved by rail between the ARP and Savannah, approximately 710 roundtrip truck miles are removed from congested highways like I-75. This model not only enhances supply chain efficiency but also delivers significant environmental benefits by reducing fuel consumption and emissions.

The ARP’s impressive growth is particularly noteworthy given the wider market context. According to a recent report from the Association of American Railroads (AAR), overall U.S. intermodal volume declined year-over-year in four of the six months leading up to and including November, as business inventories normalized. Furthermore, data from Descartes showed a slide in U.S.-bound container imports in November due to seasonal slowdowns and tariff uncertainty. Even the Port of Savannah, the ARP’s gateway, saw a slight 0.4% dip in volumes from October to November. The ARP’s ability to buck these national trends points to strong, localized demand and the success of the inland port strategy.

Key Takeaways

• Outperforming the Market: The ARP’s 35% YoY growth in November significantly outpaces the national average, which saw mixed-to-negative performance in intermodal rail and import volumes.
• Inland Port Model Validated: The facility’s success demonstrates the effectiveness of inland rail terminals in reducing truck mileage, easing highway congestion, and creating a more resilient supply chain link to major seaports.
• Successful Public-Private Partnership: The strong performance is a direct result of the collaborative investment and operational synergy between the GPA, CSX, and state and local government entities.

Editor’s Analysis

The performance of the Appalachian Regional Port is more than just a set of strong monthly numbers; it is a clear indicator of a fundamental shift in logistics strategy. Inland ports are evolving from supplementary infrastructure into essential nodes of the national supply chain. In an era defined by volatile fuel costs, persistent driver shortages, and the ever-present risk of seaport congestion, rail-served hubs like the ARP offer a compelling trifecta of predictability, cost-effectiveness, and sustainability. This facility’s success serves as a powerful blueprint for how inland regions can seamlessly integrate with global trade networks, capturing economic benefits while mitigating the logistical and environmental strains of traditional, truck-dependent supply chains.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Appalachian Regional Port (ARP)?

The ARP is an inland rail terminal near Chatsworth, Georgia, that provides a direct rail link for containerized goods between Northwest Georgia and the Port of Savannah’s Garden City Terminal via daily CSX service.

How does the ARP’s November performance compare to national trends?

The ARP’s nearly 35% year-over-year growth in November 2025 is a significant outlier. It occurred during a period when national U.S. intermodal rail volumes were mixed and overall U.S.-bound imports declined, showcasing strong regional demand that defies broader market trends.

What are the main benefits of using the ARP?

The primary benefits include increased supply chain efficiency, reduced transportation costs, and significant environmental advantages. Each container moved via the ARP eliminates about 710 roundtrip truck miles, easing highway congestion and lowering carbon emissions.