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South Carolina Ports Suspends Leatherman Terminal Operations Amid Trade Uncertainty

South Carolina Ports will temporarily halt container operations at the Hugh K. Leatherman Terminal beginning August 1. The decision stems from weak trade prospects and cost pressures in the second half of 2026. The port authority said consolidating container activity at Wando Welch and North Charleston terminals represents a more practical approach than maintaining current Leatherman volumes. The agency cited an uncertain trade forecast and industry headwinds as driving factors. Leatherman's expansion project from 700,000 TEUs to 2.4 million TEUs remains under development. The shutdown marks an operational shift focused on cost competitiveness rather than labor disputes, which previously disrupted the terminal after its 2024 reopening. Inland rail operations will face adjustments as cargo routing shifts to active Charleston terminals, affecting rail schedules and drayage patterns around the Wando and North Charleston facilities.