South Carolina Ports (SC Ports) saw loaded exports expand in January, although loaded imports declined, resulting in a softer overall performance for the gateway at the start of January.

In a statement, SC Ports said loaded exports were up nearly 11% in January — a positive trend for a strong exporting region with a booming automotive industry.

"In January, SC Ports handled 215,238 TEUs and 118,179 pier containers. This is down roughly 5% from last year, with loaded imports softening year-over-year," the port reported, noting nonetheless that the gateway continues to provide reliable, fluid and efficient service to port-dependent businesses throughout the Southeast and beyond.

Thus far in fiscal year 2023, SC Ports has handled nearly 1.6 million TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units) and 867,256 pier containers, which account for containers of any size.

SC Ports said 2022 export sales totaled US$31.5 billion, up 6% from 2021, citing data from the South Carolina Department of Commerce.

In January, the port handled 13,361 vehicles for the automotive sector.

"South Carolina remains the national leader in the export of completed passenger vehicles and tires," SC Ports said.

Infrastructure investments to benefit shippers

SC Ports said shippers benefit from its efficient operations and Charleston's deep harbor, which is now the deepest on the US East Coast at 52 feet — the deeper channel allowing seamless handling of ships fully laden with heavy exports and imports.

The gateway noted that it also offers a 7-day export receiving window that locks in 11 days before a vessel's arrival, providing much-needed stability and reliability for US businesses, farmers and advanced manufacturers needing to send goods overseas.

"Whether a farmer needs to export soybeans to international customers, or an automaker needs to import a part for its just-in-time manufacturing operation, companies know that SC Ports has a track record of delivering excellent service and customized solutions," said Barbara Melvin, president and CEO of SC Ports.

Expanding intermodal capabilities

Meanwhile, SC Ports noted expanded intermodal capabilities at the gateway, which would further boost its network interconnectivity. 

It noted that Inland Ports Greer and Dillon reported a combined 16,222 rail moves last month, with Inland Port Dillon handling a January record 3,709 rail moves.

"South Carolina Ports is one step closer to having near-dock rail at the Port of Charleston, further enhancing intermodal capabilities and making South Carolina even more competitive," the statement from the port said.

It also noted a US$400 million in state funding, which would transform a site in North Charleston into a modern, rail-served cargo yard.

SC Ports said the Navy Base Intermodal Facility is set to open in 2025.

"Class I railroads CSX and Norfolk Southern will serve the facility in partnership with Palmetto Railways. Inside the Navy Base Intermodal Facility, rail-mounted gantry cranes will lead containers on and off trains," it said.

The facility, the port noted, will seamlessly move cargo between the port and inland markets, as well as support SC Ports' rail-served Inland Ports in Greer and Dillon.

"The Navy Base Intermodal Facility will ensure SC Ports remains competitive by enhancing rail capabilities, cargo capacity and speed-to-market for customers," Melvin said.

"South Carolina remains a powerhouse in attracting investment. As companies expand their operations and invest in new facilities, SC Ports is investing in critical port infrastructure to support this growth," the SC Ports chief executive added.