South Carolina Ports (SC Ports) has achieved a record fiscal year 2022 as consumer demand drove growth in spite of supply chain challenges.
The port authority has reported 2.85 million TEU moved at Wando Welch Terminal, North Charleston Terminal and Hugh K. Leatherman Terminal in fiscal year 2022.
For pier containers, which account for boxes of any size, SC Ports moved 1.58 million units.
SC Ports enjoyed a 12 per cent uptick in cargo this fiscal year, with more than 164,000 additional containers moving through the Port of Charleston than the year prior.
Imports were up 22 per cent year-over-year.
The announcement follows 15 consecutive months of record cargo volumes.
“In partnership with our great maritime community and logistics partners, South Carolina Ports has achieved yet another record year,” SC Ports President and CEO Barbara Melvin said – the first woman to lead a top 10 US container port.
“Together, we have navigated ongoing supply chain challenges and implemented creative solutions to keep freight moving.”
SC Ports has extended Sunday gate hours and invested more than $2 billion into port infrastructure in recent years.
“Through well-planned, targeted investment, South Carolina Ports has positioned itself as a top driver of South Carolina’s economy,” said Governor Henry McMaster.
“Our investments into critical port infrastructure have attracted world-class companies to South Carolina and helped our existing businesses thrive.”
Amongst its projects, SC Ports announced it will expand Inland Port Greer following sustained record activity at the rail-served inland port in Upstate South Carolina.
The Charleston Harbor Deepening Project is also on track for completion this fall, making Charleston the deepest harbour on the East Coast at 52 feet.
