Marine Global Transportation

ncportsnew1North Carolina’s Ports of Wilmington and Morehead City, plus inland terminals in Charlotte and in the Piedmont Triad at Greensboro, have the capability and capacity to serve as competitive alternatives to ports in neighboring states. Owned and operated by the Ports Authority, North Carolina’s port system combines modern facilities and abundant capacity with the commitment to excel in service to our customers, without taxpayer subsidy. Port activities contribute statewide to 76,000 jobs and $700 million each year in state and local tax revenues.

NC-Ports-Picture-2As international trade continues to shift to the U.S. East Coast, forward-looking businesses and industries are increasingly relying on competitive access to global markets. The North Carolina State Ports Authority is preparing for this shift by making a long-term commitment to its port customers.

To meet future industry standards the North Carolina State Ports Authority is investing over $100 million in two years on an infrastructure improvement plan. Landside developments at the Port of Wilmington will allow the Authority to accommodate multiple post-Panamax container vessels. Specific improvements include the enhancement of its berth and the purchase of new post-Panamax container cranes which will improve operational efficiencies.

photo-for-rila-3There is also a waterside focus on the infrastructure improvement plan that will further develop the Cape Fear River Channel. The Port of Wilmington already can handle vessels in the 6,500 TEU class. By summer of 2016 the Port of Wilmington will be fully prepared to accommodate post-Panamax vessels with a LOA of 345 meters (1,150 ft.) and breadth of 48.16 meters (158ft.). Depending on the vessel’s profile, this would typically include vessels in the 8,000 to 10,000 TEU range.

NC-Ports--In addition, a partnership with USA InvestCo brings to the North Carolina Ports one of the only on-terminal cold storage facilities on the United States East Coast. The 101,000 square foot facility, which has the ability to expand to 300,000 square feet, will store goods and blast freeze imports and exports on-site. Specifically, the Port of Wilmington Cold Storage facility will offer convenience, logistical support, expandable storage, reduced spoilage, expedited delivery time, and will allow companies to save a substantial amount on transportation costs.

Annually, the North Carolina Ports seamlessly handle 300,000 TEUs and four million tons of bulk cargo, with additional capacity for overall growth. With new infrastructure advancements on the way over the next two years, customers and carriers seeking cost-effective and efficient solutions will find even greater resources available at North Carolina’s Ports.

For more information on North Carolina’s Ports please visit www.ncports.com.