South Carolina Shipping Ports: What You Need to Know
If you’re planning to ship containers in or out of South Carolina, it’s important to understand how the state’s two main seaports, Charleston and Georgetown, operate. Whether you’re a business moving high volumes of cargo or an individual coordinating a one-time shipment, knowing your options can save you time and money.
Here’s a breakdown of what each port offers, why Charleston is the state’s top shipping hub, and how Transocean Equipment Management can help you get it done right.
Port of Charleston: South Carolina’s Leading Port
Charleston is the state’s largest and most active seaport. With five public terminals across three municipalities, it handles containers, vehicles, bulk goods, and cruise ships with ease. Managed by the South Carolina Ports Authority (SCPA), this port is a vital link to global trade routes.
Why Charleston works:
- Handles over 2.2 million TEUs annually
- Serves 13+ global container carriers
- Deepest harbor in the Southeast—ideal for post-Panamax vessels
- $1.3 billion in infrastructure upgrades underway, including a new terminal and two inland ports
Charleston is the best option for reliable, large-scale, and international shipping.
Port of Georgetown: Smaller, Specialized, and Slowing Down
About 60 miles north of Charleston, the Port of Georgetown is a smaller facility focused on breakbulk and bulk cargo like cement, steel, and forest products. Located along the Sampit River next to the Georgetown Steel Mill, it offers solid storage and handling for specific types of freight.
However, activity has slowed considerably in recent years. Long-term redevelopment plans are under review, so Georgetown is not ideal for most container shipments today.
Inland Port Connections in South Carolina
South Carolina also operates inland ports that connect the state’s interior to global trade routes through Charleston. These inland hubs make shipping faster and more flexible, especially if you’re not located near the coast.
Two major inland ports include:
- Inland Port Greer: Connects Charleston to the Upstate region
- Inland Port Dillon: Serves the northeast part of the state
These connections reduce truck miles, speed up delivery, and provide cost savings for many businesses.
How to Choose the Right Shipping Container
Not all containers are created equal. Your choice depends on what you’re shipping, how far it’s going, and how long you’ll need the container.
Popular options include:
- 20-Foot Standard Containers: Great for tight spaces and smaller loads
- 40-Foot Standard Containers: Ideal for larger cargo or full household moves
- High Cube Containers: Extra height for bulky equipment or high-stacked goods
- Refrigerated Containers: For perishable items
- Open-Top or Flat-Rack Containers: For oversized or oddly shaped cargo
Need help choosing? Our team can match you with the perfect size and type.
Shipping Container Regulations and Permits
If you’re placing a shipping container on your property, there may be local zoning rules or permit requirements to consider, especially in residential areas or HOA neighborhoods.
We recommend:
- Checking with your local planning department
- Asking about time limits, container size restrictions, and visibility rules
- Considering placement on gravel or concrete to avoid drainage issues
We can also help you navigate the permitting process to ensure compliance.
Work With Transocean Equipment Management
Transocean Equipment Management proudly serves customers throughout South Carolina, including major cities such as Columbia, Greenville, Spartanburg, Florence, and Myrtle Beach. Our container solutions support a wide range of industries, from construction, retail, and distribution to manufacturing, agriculture, and government projects. No matter where you’re located in the state or what industry you’re in, we’re equipped to deliver reliable, efficient container solutions tailored to your needs.
Let’s make shipping and storage easy. Contact us today, and we’ll help you find the right container for your needs—wherever you are in South Carolina.
