RATE INDEX

Drayage Rates — Port of Charleston

The Port of Charleston has experienced significant growth as Southeast US manufacturing and retail distribution have expanded. The South Carolina Ports Authority's Leatherman Terminal expansion has added container capacity, and drayage demand has grown accordingly — putting upward pressure on rates in a market where carrier depth is still developing.

Rate benchmarks are estimates for a standard 40' dry container, local move. Last updated: May 2026. Actual rates vary by carrier and market conditions — always confirm directly.

$210 - $320

BASE RATE

20%

FUEL SURCH.

$30 - $45

CHASSIS SPLIT

+5%

YOY TREND

43

CARRIERS

Surcharges & Fees

CHARGE

AMOUNT

NOTES

Chassis Split Fee

$30 - $45

Charleston chassis pool has improved with Leatherman Terminal opening but remains tighter than Savannah.

Regional Delivery

$50 - $150

For moves to inland SC/NC manufacturing clusters (Greenville-Spartanburg, Charlotte).

Port Congestion

$50 - $100

Seasonal, particularly post-holiday restock seasons.

Market Context

Charleston's +5% rate trend reflects the port's growth outpacing its drayage carrier base. The port is an increasingly popular alternative to Savannah for Southeast-bound imports, particularly for auto parts and consumer goods. Carriers with operations at both Charleston and Savannah command a market premium for their multi-port flexibility.

Base Rate

One-way local move, 40' dry container, port to warehouse within 25 miles. No fuel surcharge, chassis, or port fees included.

Fuel Surcharge

Percentage added on top of base rate. Tracks diesel index, updated monthly by most carriers.

Chassis Split

Added when carrier must collect chassis from a separate pool location before the terminal gate.

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