Client: Southeast Gulf Deep-Water Port
Introduction
A major Southeast deep-water port engaged our port and rail experts to lead the full project lifecycle for an inland port development initiative — from site planning through Class I commercial negotiations — extending the port’s commercial reach to regional shippers beyond its traditional service territory.
The Challenge
The port was seeking to extend its hinterland reach through an inland facility capable of handling bulk, break-bulk, and containerized cargo with direct rail connectivity. Cargo originating and terminating well beyond the port’s core geography was moving via alternative routes, representing a significant competitive opportunity.
What We Did
- Directed all phases of inland port planning and construction, coordinating across port authority stakeholders, engineering teams, real estate, and regulatory bodies.
- Structured and negotiated service agreements with Class I railroads to establish direct rail connectivity between the inland facility and the port.
- Negotiated interchange, switching, and pricing arrangements to ensure competitive rail economics.
- Developed the commercial go-to-market strategy targeting manufacturers and distribution operations seeking cost-effective access to deep-water export capacity.
Results
Delivered a replicable inland port model that strengthened the port’s hinterland reach and positioned it to compete for cargo originating and terminating well beyond its traditional service territory.
