Table of Contents
Logistics companies Charleston SC: Driving growth through the port city
Introduction
Charleston, South Carolina, is more than just a historic port city; it’s one of the fastest-growing logistics hubs on the East Coast. With the Port of Charleston, one of the deepest and most efficient harbors in the country, global trade meets domestic distribution seamlessly. With aerospace, automotive, and advanced manufacturing industries thriving, Charleston is a natural draw for logistics companies offering warehousing, transportation, and order fulfillment.
Companies in Charleston, SC, have world-class port facilities, highway and rail access, and a highly skilled workforce. That makes it a top-tier location for supply chain efficiency.
Key points:
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Charleston has one of the deepest ports on the East Coast for large cargo vessels.
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South Carolina’s growing automotive and aerospace industries are driving demand for logistics services.
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I-26 and I-95 access for seamless distribution across the Southeast and beyond.
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Charleston has specialized logistics providers for project cargo, warehousing, and e-commerce fulfillment.
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Technology adoption, including real-time tracking and automation, is changing supply chain visibility in the city.
Top Logistics Companies in Charleston
With so many logistics partners, it can be challenging to choose the best in Charleston. Below, we explore the 10 top logistics companies in Charleston.
Company |
Key Services |
Location |
Industries Served |
Freight brokerage, warehousing, 3PL |
Mount Pleasant, SC |
Retail, Food, Manufacturing |
|
Truckload, heavy haul, consulting |
Charleston, SC |
Automotive, Construction |
|
Freight forwarding, warehousing, 3PL |
Charleston, SC |
Retail, Manufacturing |
|
Air & ocean freight, contract logistics |
Charleston, SC |
Automotive, Healthcare |
|
Specialized freight, compliance |
Charleston, SC* |
Life sciences, Food |
|
Freight brokerage, drayage, warehousing |
Charleston, SC |
Retail, Food, Distribution |
|
Warehousing, packaging, FTZ services |
Charleston, SC |
Automotive, Manufacturing |
|
Transportation, warehousing |
Charleston, SC |
Retail, Healthcare |
|
Drayage, warehousing, transloading |
North Charleston, SC |
Automotive, Chemicals |
|
Tech-enabled 3PL, e-commerce fulfillment |
North Charleston, SC |
Automotive, Chemical, Retail |
1. JEAR Logistics
JEAR Logistics, headquartered in Mount Pleasant near Charleston, SC, is a fast-growing logistics company focused on freight brokerage and third-party logistics services. Since its founding, JEAR has emphasized strong relationships with both shippers and carriers, becoming a trusted provider for businesses across the region.
Key services:
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Freight brokerage and carrier partnerships
-
Full truckload and LTL freight transportation
-
Warehousing and order fulfillment support
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24/7 customer support with real-time updates
-
Third-party logistics (3PL) for integrated supply chain needs
JEAR Logistics serves a wide range of industries, including retail, food, and general manufacturing. Their Charleston-based team provides businesses with customized solutions designed to meet freight needs efficiently. With its reputation for reliability and transparency, JEAR continues to grow as a strong logistics partner in South Carolina.
2. Trident Logistics LLC
Trident Logistics LLC is a Charleston, SC-based provider specializing in freight brokerage, forwarding, and consulting. Known for its expertise in the transportation industry, the company works closely with businesses in need of heavy haul and specialized shipping.
Key services:
-
Full truckload and LTL freight services
-
Heavy haul and project cargo management
-
Freight forwarding and customs documentation
-
Supply chain consulting and optimization
-
Logistics solutions tailored to specific industry demands
Trident Logistics primarily serves the automotive, construction, and oil & gas sectors. Located near the Port of Charleston, it offers businesses quick access to international shipping routes and regional distribution channels. Companies seeking accountable, performance-driven logistics services find Trident an ideal partner.
3. Dockside Logistics
Dockside Logistics, headquartered in Charleston, SC, with additional facilities in Hanahan and St. George, has built a reputation for its comprehensive logistics services. Leveraging proximity to the Port of Charleston, Dockside optimizes supply chains through technology and responsive customer care.
Key services:
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Freight forwarding and international shipping
-
Transportation and trucking services
-
Warehousing, storage, and distribution
-
Inventory management and order fulfillment
-
Third-party logistics
(3PL) and value-added services
Dockside Logistics supports businesses across retail, manufacturing, and distribution. Their ability to handle project cargo and streamline operations makes them a competitive provider in the Charleston market. Companies looking for efficiency and reliability in port-related logistics often choose Dockside for its broad capabilities.
4. CHS Logistics Group
CHS Logistics Group, headquartered in Charleston, provides comprehensive logistics solutions with a strong focus on air and ocean freight. Known for its partnership-driven approach, the company tailors services to meet complex client demands.
Key services:
-
International air freight and expedited shipping
-
Ocean freight forwarding and compliance
-
Contract logistics and warehousing
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Distribution management and customized solution design
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Inventory management and packaging services
Industries served include automotive, healthcare, chemicals, and aerospace. Located strategically near the port, CHS Logistics enables businesses to optimize global supply chain operations. Their emphasis on long-term client relationships makes them a dependable provider for complex shipping requirements.
5. Tucker Company Worldwide
Tucker Company Worldwide, though headquartered in New Jersey, maintains a strong presence in Charleston through its specialized freight brokerage services. With more than 60 years in the logistics industry, Tucker has carved a niche in high-value and sensitive cargo.
Key services:
-
Heavy haul and project cargo transport
-
Temperature-controlled freight
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High-security shipment management
-
Supply chain consulting and compliance expertise
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Real-time tracking and digital shipment visibility
Tucker Company Worldwide caters to industries including life sciences, food, and advanced manufacturing. For Charleston businesses requiring strict compliance and specialized logistics capabilities, Tucker provides unmatched expertise and reliability.
6. Red Lab Logistics
Red Lab Logistics, located in downtown Charleston, SC, is a rapidly growing freight brokerage company known for its agility and customer-centric operations. Its mission is to perfect the supply chain through strong communication and timely service.
Key services:
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Refrigerated and dry freight brokerage
-
Warehousing and transloading
-
Drayage for port-related shipments
-
Load status visibility through an online portal
-
End-to-end freight management
Red Lab primarily serves businesses in retail, food, and distribution. Recognized as a high-growth company, Red Lab Logistics has gained a reputation for responsiveness and transparency. For shippers seeking a modern provider with strong support and efficient operations, Red Lab stands out in Charleston’s logistics landscape.
7. Kontane Logistics
Kontane Logistics, headquartered in Charleston, is a 3PL provider specializing in warehousing and packaging for industries such as automotive manufacturing. With expertise in just-in-time (JIT) logistics, they play a critical role in the region’s industrial supply chain.
Key services:
-
3PL warehousing and distribution
-
Custom crating and industrial packaging
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Order fulfillment and sub-assembly services
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Cross-docking and freight consolidation
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Foreign trade zone services for international shipping
Kontane Logistics serves automotive and industrial manufacturing businesses across South Carolina. With its customized solutions and ability to streamline supply chain operations, Kontane has become a valuable partner for companies seeking efficiency and cost savings.
8. Charleston Logistics, LLC (CHSLOG)
Charleston Logistics, LLC (CHSLOG) operates from downtown Charleston and provides transportation and supply chain services. As a local logistics company, CHSLOG caters to businesses that require flexible and scalable operations in the region.
Key services:
-
Transportation and local freight services
-
Supply chain operations and support
-
Warehousing and storage solutions
-
Order fulfillment and inventory manag
-
Packaging and distribution assistance
CHSLOG primarily supports small-to-midsized businesses in retail, healthcare, and manufacturing. Their proximity to the port allows them to deliver competitive services for imports, exports, and local distribution. For companies seeking a Charleston-based logistics provider, CHSLOG offers a strategic connection to the port and regional commerce.
9. Harbor Logistics
Harbor Logistics, located in North Charleston, has become one of the largest drayage providers in the region. With a strong emphasis on asset ownership, they provide scalable logistics solutions backed by local expertise.
Key services:
-
Drayage and port container services
-
Trucking and regional transportation
-
Warehousing and order fulfillment
-
Rail and truck transloading
-
Customized supply chain support
Harbor Logistics serves industries such as retail, automotive, and chemicals. Their North Charleston facilities provide businesses with access to warehousing and distribution near the port. As a growth-focused logistics provider, Harbor continues to expand its capabilities, offering businesses a reliable partner in South Carolina.
10. Sunland Logistics Solutions
Sunland Logistics Solutions, with operations in North Charleston, is a technology-driven 3PL provider offering advanced warehousing and distribution services. They are known for supporting complex industries with lean practices and visibility tools.
Key services:
-
Warehouse management and design
-
E-commerce fulfillment and order processing
-
Inventory management and supply chain visibility
-
Chemical and hazardous material storage
-
Kitting, repackaging, and value-added services
Sunland caters to automotive, chemical, industrial, and retail industries. Their emphasis on technology and real-time tracking provides businesses with operational transparency and efficiency. Sunland’s strategic presence in Charleston helps companies to optimize distribution and leverage port capabilities for competitive advantage.
Final thoughts: Charleston’s logistics horizon
Charleston’s logistics scene is both old and new. Rooted in centuries of maritime trade, the city has rebranded itself as a modern logistics hub, powered by innovation, global connectivity, and a skilled workforce. Whether it’s a specialized provider like Kontane Logistics, a fast-growing company like Red Lab, or an established partner like Harbor Logistics, the city has options for businesses.
For companies in today’s competitive world, Charleston offers not just logistics services but a connection to growth, resilience, and opportunity.