Charleston Reporter

South Carolina Ports set an all-time monthly container record in November. 

It is the ninth consecutive month recording record volumes for the ports.

“The sustained, robust demand for consumer goods continues to drive record-breaking cargo volumes and retail imports at the Port of Charleston,” SC Ports CEO Jim Newsome said. “While the global supply chain remains strained from handling unprecedented amounts of cargo, SC Ports brings fluidity to the supply chain. We invested strategically in port infrastructure to provide much-needed capacity, and we consistently deploy creative, responsive solutions to meet shippers’ needs.”

Newsome also discussed ways the harbor was increasing fluidity at their terminals. 

“With record throughput volumes, we are experiencing higher than normal on-terminal inventories, especially with empty containers,” Newsome said. “We are working with our ocean carrier partners to ramp up evacuations of empties to ensure we maintain terminal fluidity.”

Newsome also had praise for his team throughout the entire supply chain at the harbor.

“Our excellent maritime community, motor carrier partners and SC Ports team continue to keep freight moving through the supply chain, supporting companies throughout the Southeast and beyond,” Newsome said.

Approximately 138,573 pier containers went through the port in November, up nearly 21% year-over-year. Loaded imports hit an all-time monthly record as well, with 127,081 loaded import TEUs handled in November, up 36% year-over-year. Meanwhile, loaded exports are now on the rise, with 67,639 loaded export TEUs moved in November, up nearly 5% from last year.

South Carolina recorded records when measuring either twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) and pier containers, according to a post on the South Carolina Ports Authority's official website. The South Carolina Ports Authority was established in 1942 and has facilities in Charleston, Dillon, Georgetown and Greer. The ports create 225,000 jobs and $63.4 billion for the state economy while also boasting the deepest harbor on the East Coast of the United States, measuring 52 feet.