Long-term agreement includes stevedoring expertise and technology investment to support Trailer Bridge’s Puerto Rico service.
Jacksonville, FL — Ports America and Trailer Bridge have entered a 10-year partnership, effective Aug. 31, 2026, to support Trailer Bridge’s Jones Act barge service between Jacksonville and San Juan, Puerto Rico. The agreement includes two additional five-year extension options.
As part of the partnership, Ports America will provide stevedoring services at Trailer Bridge’s Jacksonville port operation and implement its Dockworks terminal operating platform to support the company’s broader operations and customer base.
Implementation of Dockworks will begin immediately, with a roll out to customers expected in 2027. The platform will provide customers with greater visibility into their supply chain. The technology represents a significant step in Trailer Bridge’s efforts to modernize the customer experience and create greater connectivity throughout the shipment lifecycle.
“This partnership is about bringing the full breadth of Ports America’s capabilities to the table, including our people, technology and decades of terminal operating expertise,” said David Eckles, Vice President – Gulf & South Atlantic, Ports America. “Together with Trailer Bridge, we have an opportunity to enhance how cargo moves through the Jacksonville terminal while using technology to create greater connectivity and visibility across its broader operation.”
“We are looking at every part of our Puerto Rico service and investing in the areas that will make us stronger for our customers,” said Trailer Bridge CEO Mitch Luciano. “That includes our vessels, our people, our operational partners and the technology that connects it all. Our partnership with Ports America is another important step in that strategy, giving us the tools and operational support to deliver a better experience for our customers.”
The new agreement is part of Trailer Bridge’s larger strategy to strengthen its asset-based Jones Act service to and from Puerto Rico. In 2026, the company invested approximately $9 million in scheduled dry dock work across its roll-on, roll-off vessels. The company also recently realigned its executive leadership team to bring greater focus to its asset-based operations and customer-facing functions.
Jacksonville serves as the primary U.S. mainland gateway for trade with Puerto Rico, with more than 85% of goods shipped by ocean transport between the island and the mainland moving through the port. Trailer Bridge was founded in 1991 by Malcom McLean, widely recognized as the “Father of Containerization,” specifically to serve the Puerto Rico trade.
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About Trailer Bridge Trailer Bridge is a Jacksonville, Fla.-based transportation company providing asset-based Jones Act ocean service to and from Puerto Rico, international freight forwarding and logistics solutions for the U.S. government and its allies. Founded in 1991 by industry pioneer Malcom McLean to serve the Puerto Rico trade, the company continues his legacy of innovation through investments in its people, assets and solutions designed to serve the evolving needs of today’s shippers. Learn more at TrailerBridge.com