Project Cargo at the Port of Charleston

Offering heavy-lift and specialty project cargo services directly from the Port of Charleston.

The Charleston Advantage:

Why Your Project Cargo Belongs at the Southeast's Most Strategic Gateway

In the world of project cargo, there are no standard sizes, no simple solutions, and no room for error. Your high-value, oversized, and mission-critical components demand a logistics partner with precision, expertise, and the right strategic assets. Shipping from the Port of Charleston gives your project a decisive edge. As your dedicated logistics partner, Rawlins Rigging leverages the port's world-class infrastructure and strategic location to deliver unmatched efficiency and reliability for your most complex shipments.

Engineering Your Success in Charleston

Knowing the advantages of the port is only half the battle. Executing a flawless project cargo shipment requires a partner with deep local knowledge and hands-on expertise. That's Rawlins Rigging.

What We Provide for Shippers

  • From initial route planning and feasibility studies to final delivery, we are your single point of contact. We coordinate with SC Ports, ocean carriers, heavy-haul transport, and crane operators to ensure a seamless operation.

  • Our name is our promise. Our certified riggers and logistics experts specialize in the unique demands of specialty project cargo. We handle everything from massive generators and turbines to delicate manufacturing components and entire plant modules.

  • We manage all port documentation, customs clearance, and permitting requirements, ensuring your cargo moves without costly delays or compliance issues.

  • Your project is our priority. We provide proactive communication and real-time tracking, giving you the peace of mind that comes from knowing your high-value assets are in expert hands.

Why Charleston is the Premier Choice for Project Cargo

The Port of Charleston is more than just a location; it's a competitive advantage. Its continuous investment in infrastructure and strategic position in the heart of the booming Southeast market make it the ideal choice for manufacturers, EPCs, and energy leaders.

Key Advantages for Project Cargo Shippers:

  • The Deepest Harbor on the U.S. East Coast:
    With a commanding depth of 52 feet, Charleston Harbor provides unrestricted, 24/7 access for the world's largest vessels. This eliminates tidal delays and ensures your project timeline remains on track.

  • Specialized Terminals Built for Your Cargo: The Port of Charleston isn't just a container port. The Columbus Street Terminal is a dedicated hub for non-containerized cargo, offering:

    • Heavy Lift Capabilities: Access to specialized equipment, including a 500-net-ton floating crane, one of the largest on the Eastern seaboard, capable of handling the most demanding lifts.

    • Ample Laydown & Storage: Over 155 acres of terminal space, with significant open storage areas specifically for project cargo, vehicles, and breakbulk.

    • Direct Rail Access: On-dock and near-dock rail services with dual connectivity to CSX and Norfolk Southern, providing seamless and efficient inland transit for oversized loads.

  • Strategic Market Access: Centrally located in the thriving Southeast, the Port of Charleston offers rapid access to major manufacturing centers for aerospace, automotive, and energy industries. Excellent interstate highway connectivity ensures your cargo moves efficiently once it reaches shore.

  • A Commitment to Growth and Efficiency: SC Ports is investing billions to enhance capacity and fluidity continuously. The state-of-the-art Hugh K. Leatherman Terminal and an expanding intermodal network are testaments to a forward-thinking approach that guarantees future readiness for your projects.

By the Numbers: The Port of Charleston Delivers

The statistics speak for themselves. The Port of Charleston is a powerful and growing force in U.S. logistics.

  • Top 10 U.S. Container Port: A vital hub for global commerce.

  • 845,000+ Pier Tonnage (Breakbulk): Demonstrating significant expertise in handling non-containerized freight. (Fiscal Year 2024)

  • Dual Class I Rail Connectivity: CSX and Norfolk Southern provide competitive and reliable inland distribution.

  • Direct Access to I-26 and I-526: Minimizing transit time from the terminal gate to the highway.

Partner with Rawlins Rigging and the Port of Charleston to give your next project the perfect foundation for success. Contact our project cargo specialists today to discuss your unique shipping requirements and discover the Charleston advantage.