South Carolina Ports Consolidate Terminal Operations

The South Carolina Ports Authority shifted container activities to the Waldo and North Charleston terminals in June 2026.

Updated on Oct. 26, 2026 in Transportation

Stacked shipping containers on an asphalt wharf under a clear, hazy coastal sky. — The South Carolina Ports Authority consolidated container operations at the Waldo and North Charleston terminals in June 2026 to reduce operating costs. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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In an effort to reduce operating costs, the South Carolina Ports Authority consolidated its container operations to the Waldo and North Charleston terminals starting in June 2026. This move followed declining container volumes and preceded the August 1, 2026, closure of the Leatherman Terminal.

Why it matters

The consolidation aims to eliminate duplicated operational expenses across the state's facilities. By concentrating cargo at primary terminals, the authority intends to improve efficiency while managing shifting shipping demand.

Inland Port Greer saw its cargo capacity increase by 50% following a $55 million expansion project completed in 2025. Additionally, the Ports SMART Pool Chassis Program now utilizes a fleet of nearly 10,000 GPS-equipped chassis.

The players

South Carolina Ports Authority

This government entity owns and operates the public maritime and inland port facilities located throughout South Carolina.

US Army Corps of Engineers

This federal agency maintains navigable waterways and signed a feasibility study agreement with SC Ports in August 2026.

The details

The authority re-routed cargo flows from the Leatherman facility to the remaining active terminals to streamline operations. Looking ahead, infrastructure improvements at the North Charleston Terminal, including rail and Ro/Ro updates, are scheduled for completion by 2028.

2014-2024: Inland Port Greer experienced 355% cargo growth.
2025: The expansion project at Inland Port Greer was completed.
June 2026: Container operations were consolidated to Waldo and North Charleston terminals.
August 1, 2026: Operations officially ceased at the Leatherman Terminal.
2028: North Charleston terminal updates are expected to be finished.

Market Landscape

The consolidation follows a pattern set by the Port of Charleston Modernization Project to enhance statewide logistical competitiveness. By streamlining infrastructure, the state seeks to maintain its standing against competing regional ports in the Southeast.

These operational shifts generally occur behind the scenes for the average consumer, though they aim to stabilize supply chain reliability for goods imported through state ports. Local businesses relying on maritime trade may see changes in logistics routing and terminal access as the authority updates its infrastructure.

The takeaway

The consolidation reflects a strategic pivot to optimize resources during periods of fluctuating shipping volumes. Residents and businesses should note that while terminal operations are shifting, long-term investments in rail and Ro/Ro capacity remain on track for 2028.