Fleet of nearly 10,000 modern, GPS-equipped chassis supports faster logistics and greater equipment reliability through the Port of Charleston
CHARLESTON, S.C. — September 15, 2026 — South Carolina Ports has expanded the direct-leasing component of its SMART Pool™ Chassis Program, giving motor carriers, ocean carriers and shippers greater access to reliable equipment for moving cargo throughout the Southeast.
SC Ports maintains a fleet of nearly 10,000 modern, GPS-equipped chassis in Charleston. The expanded leasing program offers competitive daily and long-term rates while helping customers secure equipment where and when it is needed.
Direct leasing allows motor carriers to reserve chassis for a specified period, improving equipment availability and supporting more predictable supply-chain operations.
Modern Chassis Fleet Supports Southeast Supply Chains
Reliable chassis availability is essential for efficiently moving containers between marine terminals, warehouses, manufacturing facilities and distribution centers.
The SMART Pool Chassis Program is designed to reduce the time drivers spend locating available equipment. This helps freight move more quickly through the Port of Charleston and onward to destinations throughout the Southeast.
“In a dynamic market, where every minute and dollar counts, reliability is critical to a successful supply chain, particularly for just-in-time manufacturers and retail distribution centers fulfilling online orders,” said James Caudill, director of SC Ports’ Chassis and SMART Pool.
“Our port-owned and managed chassis pool allows a seamless process from start to finish. We offer reliable chassis for shippers needing predictability.”
On-Site Support Improves Port Logistics
The program provides carriers, shippers and drivers with access to convenient on-terminal chassis depots, equipment-repair services, transparent billing and support from SC Ports’ in-house chassis team.
These services help customers minimize delays, improve fleet planning and maintain consistent cargo movement through the region.
“The SMART Pool Chassis Program provides the Southeast market with dependable chassis availability, creating faster logistics and better service for our partners and customers moving freight through the Port of Charleston,” said SC Ports President and CEO Micah Mallace.
“Ocean carriers, truck drivers and shippers can lease chassis directly, ensuring they can confidently plan and expertly meet demand.”
SMART Pool Chassis Leasing Options
SC Ports offers three chassis options to accommodate different supply-chain requirements:
- Daily chassis usage through the SMART Pool
- Direct-billing options designed for beneficial cargo owners
- Longer-term leases that allow carriers to secure a dedicated fleet
Customers can contact the SC Ports chassis team to lease equipment directly or enroll in the SMART Pool Chassis Program.
About South Carolina Ports
South Carolina Ports owns and operates marine terminals at the Port of Charleston and two rail-served inland ports in Greer and Dillon.
As the eighth-largest container port in the United States, SC Ports connects port-dependent companies throughout the Southeast with global markets. The organization provides efficient port operations, cargo capacity, an expansive rail network and access to the deepest harbor in the Southeast.
SC Ports serves as an important economic engine for South Carolina, with port operations supporting approximately one in nine jobs statewide.
Learn more at SCSPA.com.
