Ports in Southeast America have seen record cargo volumes in the past year, with the ports of South Carolina, Georgia, and Virginia reporting significant increases in cargo handling.
The South Carolina Ports Authority (SCPA) announced that it handled a record 2.7 million TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units) in 2021, a 12.5% increase from the previous year. The SCPA attributed the growth to increased demand for consumer goods and a strong manufacturing sector.
Similarly, the Georgia Ports Authority (GPA) reported record cargo volumes, handling 4.8 million TEUs in 2021, a 7.5% increase from the previous year. Despite challenges posed by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the GPA maintained substantial cargo volumes thanks to its diverse cargo mix and strong customer relationships.
The Port of Virginia (VIT) also reported record cargo volumes, handling 2.9 million TEUs in 2022, a 15% increase from the previous year. The port attributed the growth to increased demand for consumer goods, particularly electronics and furniture, and strong demand for agricultural exports.
These record cargo volumes demonstrate the ongoing strength of the Southeast American economy and the vital role that ports play in facilitating trade and economic growth in the region. While some numbers are elevated because cargo was diverted early on away from the US west coast, east coast numbers haven’t fallen off as fast as analysts predicted, leading many to expect further gains this year for the smaller southern ports.
At Nelson International, we’re busy keeping track of how ports and transportation works in every corner of our country. Understanding where to expect congestion protects our customers from costly delays and helps them avoid uprooting their supply chains to avoid a minor blip in the market. If you want to work ahead of the curve and keep your cargo on the cutting edge of globalization, contact your Nelson representative today.
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