Port Charleston Cuts Rates with “Mid-Winter Rate Roll-Back”
December 18, 2008
CHARLESTON, SC – The South Carolina State Ports Authority (SCSPA) is instituting an across-the-board rate discount in the Port of Charleston to provide near-term relief to customers impacted by the current global economic situation.
From January 1 through March 31, the SCSPA’s “Mid-Winter Rate Roll-Back” will reduce contract unit fees for container carrier customers by 5 percent.
“Our carrier customers are facing some very challenging market conditions,” said Bernard S. Groseclose Jr., president and CEO of the SCSPA. “We heard from them and we’re responding. This sends a clear signal that we are serious about their business today and in the future.”
The SCSPA’s action is aimed at maintaining the viability of current service levels from its carrier clients, avoiding cuts that would negatively affect the local maritime industry and jobs statewide.
“We understand the pressures our clients have, and this rate roll-back will make our Charleston operation even more affordable at a time when our customers could use a break,” said Groseclose. “The entire Charleston maritime community is committed to keeping existing business while bringing in new accounts. One way to show our commitment is to provide some relief and reduce rates.”
Additionally, this rate reduction will be attractive to those customers who may wish to concentrate business in Charleston.
Through the first five months of the current fiscal year (July-November), Charleston’s container business was off 4 percent from the same period last year.
For more information:
Byron D. Miller
Director, Public Relations
S.C. State Ports Authority
843-577-8197
