MSC’s Charleston Rail Expansion: Leatherman Terminal & Albatros/Dragon Services

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Introduction

MSC, South Carolina Ports’ largest carrier, will introduce two new weekly services at the Port of Charleston in September, connecting shippers in the southeastern United States with various international destinations. The new services, the Albatros and the Dragon, will utilize the Leatherman Terminal and 15,000 20-foot-equivalent unit (TEU) vessels.

New Services at the Leatherman Terminal

MSC will launch the Albatros and Dragon services, both transatlantic, at the Leatherman Terminal in September, according to a press release from SC Ports officials. These services will facilitate connections between the southeastern United States, northern Europe, the Mediterranean, and Asia.

Terminal Expansion and Infrastructure Development

The Leatherman Terminal is currently undergoing the second phase of its expansion. This phase includes extending the wharf to accommodate five additional ship-to-shore cranes. The Leatherman Rail Facility has seen the erection of all six electric rail-mounted gantry cranes, with commissioning underway by contractor Kuenz. The rail facility is scheduled to open in early 2026 and is projected to handle 1 million rail lifts annually upon completion.

Drayage Road Construction

SC Ports is also advancing the construction of a 1-mile drayage road. This road will separate intermodal traffic from Interstate 26 upon its completion.

Conclusion

MSC is set to launch the Albatros and Dragon services, using 15,000 TEU vessels, at the Port of Charleston’s Leatherman Terminal in September. The terminal is also expanding and constructing a rail facility, along with a dedicated drayage road.

Company Summary

MSC: South Carolina Ports’ largest carrier.

Kuenz: The contractor commissioning the cranes at the Leatherman Rail Facility.

SC Ports: Responsible for port operations and infrastructure development in South Carolina.

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