SOUTH Carolina Ports (SC Ports) saw cargo volumes ticking up in April, buoyed by the strength of the Southeast market.

Retail importers and advanced manufacturers are investing billions to establish and expand operations in South Carolina. These port-dependent businesses benefit from access to a well-run port system, SC Ports said in a statement.

"We have invested in port capacity to ensure South Carolina remains competitive," SC Ports president and CEO Barbara Melvin said. "Strategically investing in port infrastructure and operations supports economic growth and jobs throughout the state."

In April, SC Ports moved 214,101 TEU and 119,572 pier containers, which account for containers of any size.

While volumes are down 19 per cent year on year as consumers continue to buy fewer goods compared to last year's massive import boom, volumes trended up 11 per cent month on month.

Thus far in fiscal year 2023, SC Ports and the maritime community handled 2.18 million TEU and nearly 1.21 million pier containers. Fiscal year volumes are down about 9 per cent from the same time a year prior.

SC Ports' two rail-served inland ports in Greer and Dillon handled a combined 17,177 rail moves in April, up nearly 15 per cent year over year, with Dillon achieving a record April with 3,752 rail moves.

SC Ports also handled 12,957 vehicles and 25,942 cruise passengers last month.

"To support future growth, we are actively investing to increase our rail competitiveness by building a near-port intermodal hub that will further enhance fluidity for our customers," Ms Melvin added.