Five Competitive Advantages Jacksonville Offers Exporters

Written by: Sophia Prudencio

When choosing where to export cargo, shippers consider many factors. Backed by one of the nation’s strongest logistics networks, modern port infrastructure, global ocean carrier connections, a skilled workforce, and a prime environment for manufacturing, JAXPORT offers exporters everything they need to compete in the global supply chain—highlighting Jacksonville as a gateway for international trade.

Advantage #1: Strong Logistics Network

Known as America’s Logistics Center, Jacksonville offers deepwater seaport access, three major interstates (I-95, I-10, and I-75), three railroads, and an international airport—making it one of the top-ranked cities for logistics infrastructure. More than 100 trucking firms, warehouses and dozens of logistics providers also complement the region’s transportation network.

“The port’s location provides access to major highway and rail connections, making it easy to move cargo efficiently to the port for export,” said Mary Robbins, Business Development Manager with logistics company JF Moran.

Advantage #2: Modern Infrastructure

JAXPORT moves a wide variety of cargo, including containers, autos, breakbulk (non-containerized cargo), bulk products, liquid bulk, heavy lift, and project cargo.

“JAXPORT is highly diversified, allowing us to ship all types of cargo to destinations across the globe,” Robbins added.

As the nation’s largest container port and one of its largest vehicle-handling ports, JAXPORT has evolved to meet the growing needs of shippers by continuously enhancing its infrastructure. In recent years, the port has modernized terminals, upgraded berths, added new cargo handling cranes, and deepened the Blount Island terminal to 47 feet to accommodate larger ships.

“JAXPORT’s facilities are modern and efficient; we don’t experience the long delays you see at other ports,” said Joselin Ramos, CEO of logistics firm CBX Global. “Our company has interaction with ports in many countries globally, and JAXPORT has the right attitude to do business.”

Advantage #3: Global Connections

JAXPORT connects businesses to the world with competitive transit times to over 140 ports in more than 70 countries. Whether shipping to Europe, Latin America, or Asia, JAXPORT’s partnerships with major ocean carriers ensure reliable service.

“Jacksonville for us is a major gateway to the Caribbean, from Asia, and Central America,” Ramos said. “Many people are looking at Jacksonville like the new hub in Florida. We feel proud to select Jacksonville to be our new hub a couple of years ago; we made the right move.”

With access to multiple trade lanes, JAXPORT serves as a key connection for international commerce—equipped to meet the demands of today’s global economy.

“The RoRo terminal offers services with all the major carriers connecting to most countries,” Robbins added. “Most important is the relationship with terminal operators and the ongoing improvements that enhance cargo flow, making the terminal more user-friendly for our drivers and shippers.”

Advantage #4: Skilled Workforce

Jacksonville benefits from a highly skilled workforce of more than 885,000 people. Home to three military bases, the region has a steady pipeline of veterans entering the civilian workforce, many with technical and leadership expertise well-suited for logistics and maritime careers.

Local universities and trade schools—including FSCJ and UNF—also provide a strong talent pipeline, offering programs in logistics, transportation, and supply chain management.

“The number of students graduating from FSCJ, UNF, Keiser, and other institutions with logistics-focused degrees allows you to access amazing talent for this business. We feel proud to be part of many associations in the region supporting these educational institutions,” Ramos said.

Advantage #5: Prime Environment for Manufacturing

Jacksonville is also an ideal location for companies expanding their manufacturing operations. With a low cost of doing business, construction costs approximately 14% below the national average, and competitive industrial lease rates, the city offers a business-friendly environment.

“We continue to see companies locate manufacturing and distribution operations in the Jacksonville area to take advantage of our region’s skilled labor, modern port facilities and supporting road and rail infrastructure,” said JAXPORT Chief Commercial Officer Robert Peek. “Manufacturers can move raw materials and finished goods seamlessly to and from domestic and international markets from JAXPORT.”

How to Export from JAXPORT

JAXPORT’s cargo experts are here to help you move goods through Jacksonville and beyond. Click here to contact JAXPORT’s commercial team members Sheila Cox, David Briceno, and Alberto Cabrera for more information.