
The South Carolina Ports Authority (SCPA) is a vital economic engine for the state, established in 1942 to manage and promote seaport facilities across South Carolina. Headquartered in Mt. Pleasant, the SCPA owns and operates the Port of Charleston, the Port of Georgetown, and inland ports in Greer and Dillon. The Port of Charleston, recognized as one of the most efficient and fastest-growing ports in the United States, serves as a major hub for international trade on the East Coast. SCPA’s network of facilities drives significant economic activity, handling more than $75 billion in international commerce annually and supporting approximately 1 in every 9 jobs statewide, with wages notably higher than the state average. The authority is renowned for its financial self-sufficiency, innovative infrastructure projects, and customer-focused operations. Its ongoing investments in port improvements, intermodal connectivity, and technology keep the SCPA competitive globally, making it indispensable to regional economic growth and the broader U.S. supply chain.
Monday through Friday, 5:00 AM to 5:00 PM (varies by terminal and operations; some container gates offer extended hours for appointment-based transactions).
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Typical import flow is vessel arrival, berth assignment, container discharge, customs review, release, dray pickup, and final delivery. Standard clearance may be same day to several days depending on documentation and exams.
Typical export flow is inland dray to terminal, terminal gate-in, documentation and filing, vessel loading, and departure. Timing depends on cutoff windows, bookings, inspections, and vessel schedule.
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