Inland Port Greer has biggest month ever

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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 a 52% increase year-over-year, according to the South Carolina Ports Authority.

Norfolk Southern moves cargo to and from the inland port for advanced manufacturers, automotive companies, solar panel producers and retailers, SCPA said in a news release.

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, an 83% increase from a year ago.

“S.C. Ports' rail-served inland ports create more reliability, flexibility and speed for our customers’ supply chains,” S.C. Ports President and CEO Barbara Melvin said in the news release. “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."

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Container volumes were down for the month of August, the SCPA reported. S.C. Ports handled 203,169 TEUs and 111,745 pier containers in August, down 9% year-over-year. A TEU is a measure of volume in units equal to 20-foot containers. The U.S. port industry is anticipating a slower peak season than typical due to a lower consumer appetite and tempered U.S. economy, the release stated. 

“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 in the release. “S.C. 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.