CHARLESTON, SC — SEPT. 19, 2023 — South Carolina Ports’ rail-served inland ports continue to see strong volumes, serving as a key connection between inland markets and the Port of Charleston.
Inland Port Greer achieved an all-time record month in August, handling 16,857 rail moves. This marked the most monthly moves in its history and an impressive 52% increase year-over-year.
Inland Port Greer sits between the Charlotte and Atlanta markets in Upstate South Carolina. Norfolk Southern moves cargo to and from the inland port for many advanced manufacturers, automotive companies, solar panel producers and retailers.
Inland Port Dillon, which sits along the North Carolina border and is served by CSX, also had a strong month. Inland Port Dillon handled 3,439 rail moves, a whopping 83% increase from a year ago.
“SC Ports' rail-served inland ports create more reliability, flexibility and speed for our customers’ supply chains,” SC Ports President and CEO Barbara Melvin said. “Our incredibly successful inland port network reinforces the importance of providing near-port rail to the Port of Charleston with the new Navy Base Intermodal Facility, which is on track to open in 2025."
Container volumes were down for the month of August. SC Ports handled 203,169 TEUs and 111,745 pier containers in August, down 9% year-over-year. The U.S. port industry is anticipating a slower peak season than typical due to a lower consumer appetite and tempered U.S. economy.
“Customers looking for efficient operations and reliable service on the U.S. East Coast find a powerful alternative gateway with South Carolina Ports,” Melvin said. “SC Ports delivers cargo capacity and excellent port service in the thriving Southeast market.”
The vehicle segment remained strong with 17,876 vehicles moving through the Port of Charleston in August, up 9% year-over-year. Cruise passengers were up 11%, with 25,905 passengers coming through the port in August.
About South Carolina Ports Authority
South Carolina Ports owns and operates marine terminals at the Port of Charleston and two rail-served inland ports in Greer and Dillon. As the 8th largest U.S. container port, SC Ports connects port-dependent businesses throughout the Southeast and beyond to global markets. SC Ports proactively invests in infrastructure ahead of demand to provide reliable service, efficient operations, cargo capacity, an expansive rail network and the deepest harbor on the East Coast at 52 feet. SC Ports is a vital economic engine for South Carolina, with port operations supporting 1 in 10 jobs statewide. Learn more: scspa.com.