South Carolina port to expand rail operations for autos

The South Carolina Ports Authority (SC Ports) last week touted plans to expand roll on-roll off (ro-ro) operations at its rail-served North Charleston Terminal to further support the state’s automotive industry. 

SC Ports’ board approved a design contract for the plan, which will enable additional shippers to move more cargo through the Port of Charleston. 

Demolition of an adjacent former paper mill site — which the port acquired in 2024 — will begin this summer. Work to prepare the terminal for ro-ro operations will begin in 2027, with completion anticipated in 2028. 

Breakbulk and ro-ro operations are currently handled at the Columbus Street Terminal, which can handle more than 250,000 vehicles annually through the Port of Charleston. The plan creates more capacity at the terminal for additional waterborne commerce, SC Ports officials said in a press release. 

“We are committed to growth, and we will use every acre of our real estate to welcome new cargo opportunities to Charleston,” said SC Ports President and CEO Micah Mallace. 

The planned expansion includes rail upgrades and building ro-ro capabilities. Rail operations will be handled by rail partner Palmetto Railways, which interchanges with CSX and Norfolk Southern Railway.

The plan to expand rail services at the North Charleston Terminal builds on robust existing rail infrastructure and improves capacity for future cargo growth, said Palmetto Railways President and CEO Patrick McCrory. 

“Together, we will continue working seamlessly to enhance service for our shared customers for ro-ro operations at North Charleston Terminal, while also collaborating on future business growth opportunities at Columbus Street Terminal,” he said.