Trade Uncertainty Results in South Carolina Ports Temporarily Consolidating Container Operations

Containter ship in Port of Charleston (Photo credit/SC Ports/Matthew Peacock

CHARLESTON, S.C. –– South Carolina Ports this week announced it is temporarily consolidating operations to its Wando and North Charleston terminals.

SC Ports is also planning to pause operations at it’s Leatherman Terminal on August 1. However, the port authority says it continues to offer ample port capacity to customers needing access to the Southeast market.

The reason for this temporary change in operations, according to the port authority, is that “the industry faces numerous headwinds, an uncertain trade forecast and tempered volumes.” The port adds that “This decision aligns with the port’s continued focus on cost competitiveness to ensure the business is well-positioned for growth.”

Micah Mallace, SC Ports President and CEO, said, “We are working with our maritime partners to make this business decision to achieve long-term, sustainable growth. We all want to retain current business and attract new business to Charleston.”

According to the port authority, the North Charleston and Wando terminals combined have adequate capacity to meet customer needs, as well as growth, while Leatherman Terminal is temporarily closed.

Mallace added that “As an economic driver and job creator for South Carolina, we remain focused on delivering exceptional service to our customers and generating growth. The maritime industry, and the thousands of companies and people connected to our port, all depend on us –– and we intend to deliver for them.”

Photo by David C. Lester