SC Ports expansion to boost rail and terminal capacity by 2026
CHARLESTON, S.C. — South Carolina Ports is moving forward with significant expansion projects aimed at boosting rail and container capacity ahead of 2026.
Leatherman Rail Facility Near Completion
Officials confirmed that construction on the Leatherman Rail Facility is nearly complete, with six electric rail-mounted gantry cranes already in place. Once fully operational in early 2026, the facility will be able to handle 1 million rail lifts annually, marking a major step in streamlining freight movement across the state.
Barbara Melvin, former SC Ports President and CEO, said the investments are critical to long-term competitiveness. “The continued growth of our inland rail facilities, and our commitment to enhancing efficiency for our customers necessitated this critical infrastructure expansion and will keep SC Ports competitive as a top 10 U.S. container port for decades to come,” she noted.
Leatherman Terminal Expansion
In addition to the rail project, phase two of the Leatherman Terminal expansion is underway. Crews have begun installing test piles for an additional 1,600 feet of wharf space, which will provide room for six new ship-to-shore cranes. The upgrades are expected to enhance capacity as larger ships increasingly call on Charleston.
MSC Adds New Weekly Services
The world’s largest container carrier, MSC, will also expand its presence in Charleston. Starting in 2026, the company will add two new weekly services — the Albatros and Dragon routes — connecting South Carolina shippers to North Europe, the Mediterranean, and Asia. Each service will deploy ships carrying up to 15,000 TEUs, ranking among the largest ever scheduled for the port.
Record Growth at Inland Ports
The expansion comes on the heels of record-setting activity at South Carolina’s inland facilities. In July, Inland Ports Greer and Dillon both reported all-time highs for rail moves. Overall, SC Ports handled 213,177 TEUs and 117,059 pier containers at the start of fiscal year 2026.
Preparing for the Future
With demand for imports and exports continuing to grow in the Southeast, port leaders say these projects are designed to keep South Carolina at the forefront of global shipping. Investments in deeper harbors, expanded terminals, and stronger rail connectivity are being positioned as key factors for maintaining Charleston’s standing among the nation’s busiest container ports.
How do you think South Carolina’s port expansions will impact the state’s economy and jobs in the coming years? Share your thoughts with us at SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.
