SOUTH Carolina Ports enters fiscal year 2024 showing signs of strength with SC Ports handling 208,134 TEU and 115,422 pier containers in July.

Imports flowing into the Port of Charleston outperformed US volumes with a 12 per cent increase from June and a three per cent year-on-year increase. Exports were up nine per cent from last year.

Total container volume was down about four per cent year on year in July, driven by lower exports of empty containers.

"Although overall volumes continue to reflect the tempered US economy, the southeast is booming and the US east coast port market continues to attract new cargo," said SC Ports president and CEO Barbara Melvin.

"SC Ports is a powerhouse port on the East Coast with a reputation for providing reliable port service. We quickly work ships and efficiently move cargo."

While manufacturing and retail remain down in the US, the Southeast market is thriving with an influx of new residents and industrial growth. Port-dependent companies are investing in manufacturing facilities, electric vehicle operations and retail distribution centres.

These investments are expected to drive SC Ports' cargo growth at a higher rate than national trends. SC Ports has invested more than US$2 billion into critical port infrastructure and is currently building a $400 million intermodal yard to provide near-port rail to the Port of Charleston.

SC Ports' two rail-served inland ports continue to yield strong volumes, handling a combined 17,724 rail moves in July, which is a 55 per cent increase year on year. Inland Port Dillon continues to break records, reporting a record July with 2,919 rail moves. Inland Port Greer also had a strong month with 14,805 rail moves in July.