South Carolina Ports (SC Ports) has recently released data indicating a 12 per cent increase in imports in July.
The authority handled 208,134 TEU and 115,422 pier containers in July.
Imports flowing into the Port of Charleston outperformed US volumes with a 12 per cent increase from June and a 3 per cent increase year-over-year (YoY).
Exports were up 9 per cent from last year.
Total container volume was down about 4 per cent YoY in July, driven by lower exports of empty containers.
READ: SC Ports sees downturn in container volumes
SC Ports President and CEO, Barbara Melvin, said: “Although overall volumes continue to reflect the tempered US economy, the Southeast is booming and the US East Coast port market continues to attract new cargo.
“SC Ports is a powerhouse port on the East Coast with a reputation for providing reliable port service. We quickly work ships and efficiently move cargo for our customers.”
While manufacturing and retail remain down in the US, the Southeast market is thriving with an influx of new residents and industrial growth. Port-dependent companies are investing in manufacturing facilities, electric vehicle operations and retail distribution centres.
READ: SC Ports’ Leatherman Terminal among top eight engineering projects in US
These investments are expected to drive SC Ports’ cargo growth at a higher rate than national trends.
The authority has invested more than $2 billion into critical port infrastructure and is currently building a $400 million intermodal yard to provide near-port rail to the Port of Charleston.
Two rail-served inland ports continue to yield strong volumes, handling a combined 17,724 rail moves in July, which is a 55 per cent increase YoY.
Inland Port Dillon continues to break records, reporting a record July with 2,919 rail moves. Inland Port Greer also had a strong month with 14,805 rail moves in July.
Ro-Ro cargo remained steady YoY, with 20,866 vehicles rolling across the docks at the Port of Charleston.
In July 2023, SC Ports finished fiscal year 2023 with steady TEU container volumes and stellar activity at its rail-served inland ports.
