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    A massive container ship dominates the view in Charleston Harbor alongside towering cranes and a small fishing boat

    South Carolina Ports Authority

    South Carolina
    East Coast

    Overview

    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.

    Facilities

    • Wando Welch Terminal (Charleston)
    • Hugh K. Leatherman Terminal (Charleston)
    • North Charleston Terminal
    • Columbus Street Terminal (Charleston)
    • Union Pier Terminal (Charleston)
    • Port of Georgetown
    • Inland Port Greer
    • Inland Port Dillon

    Operating Hours

    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).

    Shipping Lines

    Major carriers serving this port

    1
    Maersk
    2
    MSC (Mediterranean Shipping Company)
    3
    CMA CGM
    4
    Hapag-Lloyd
    5
    Evergreen Marine
    6
    ONE (Ocean Network Express)
    7
    Yang Ming
    8
    ZIM Integrated Shipping Services

    Tools & Resources

    Essential tools, portals, and resources for clients and partners.

    Data & Reports

    Official statistics, research reports, and data tracking for South Carolina Ports Authority.

    Location & Maps

    Find South Carolina Ports Authority on popular mapping services.

    Interactive Map

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    Frequently Asked Questions

    Common inquiries about operations and logistics at South Carolina Ports Authority.

    What is the process and how long does customs clearance take for import cargo through US seaports?

    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.

    What is the process and how long does export cargo take through US seaports?

    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.

    For More Info

    Third-party resources, government portals, ratings, and more.

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