South Carolina Ports (SC Ports) closed out fiscal year 2025 with robust performance, demonstrating significant growth in both container volumes and vital rail cargo, solidifying its position as a key logistics hub in the U.S. Southeast.
Strong Fiscal Year 2025 Performance
SC Ports successfully handled 2.6 million TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units) over the past fiscal year, marking a 3% increase compared to fiscal year 2024. This growth was complemented by a 4% climb in rail moves, driven by strong demand at the Port of Charleston and its two inland rail terminals.
Despite the ongoing shifts in global trade, SC Ports has maintained a reputation for dependable service. Its deep harbor access and efficient terminals at the Port of Charleston continue to benefit a diverse range of clients, including “mega retailers, advanced manufacturers, refrigerated goods shippers, farmers and small businesses,” as highlighted by Barbara Melvin, President and CEO of SC Ports.
Record-Breaking Rail Cargo Growth
Railed cargo emerged as a standout performer for SC Ports in FY25:
- Inland Port Greer achieved a new record with 205,523 rail moves, representing a nearly 10% increase from the previous year. This marks the first time the terminal has surpassed 200,000 moves in a single fiscal year. This achievement underscores the success of recent expansion efforts at Greer, which have effectively doubled its cargo capacity.
- Inland Port Dillon maintained steady volumes, recording 33,838 rail containers moved in FY25, holding consistent performance in the latter half of the year.
In addition to container and rail volumes, SC Ports also handled a substantial 165,949 finished vehicles across its docks during FY25, further diversifying its cargo portfolio.
Future-Focused Growth
Looking ahead, SC Ports is committed to long-term growth through strategic infrastructure investments and expanded intermodal services:
- Charleston Capacity Expansion: The port authority plans to significantly boost cargo capacity at the Port of Charleston, with a long-term goal of reaching 10 million TEUs.
- Leatherman Terminal Developments: Work is actively underway on a second berth at the Hugh K. Leatherman Terminal. This expansion is crucial for accommodating larger vessels and increasing overall throughput.
- New Near-Port Rail Yard: A new rail yard at the Leatherman Terminal is also under construction, with an anticipated opening in 2026. This “Leatherman Rail Yard” is designed to offer a 1 million lift capacity and provide faster rail access to crucial inland markets, enhancing speed-to-market and cargo visibility for customers.
These proactive investments are designed to support the growing economy and population of the Southeast, ensuring SC Ports can continue to handle increasing cargo volumes and provide reliable supply chain solutions for decades to come.
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Source: Container News
