Traffic delayed as long lines of 18-wheelers waited to get into Wando terminal

MOUNT PLEASANT, S.C. (WCBD) – Hundreds of tractor-trailers were seen along I-526 Wednesday afternoon waiting to enter the Wando Welch terminal.

Heavy traffic was seen on Long Point Road and in the eastbound lanes of I-526 with 18-wheelers and vehicles lined up well past the Don Holt Bridge throughout most of the day.

SC Ports officials told News 2 their gates were currently open and processing trucks when asked Wednesday afternoon. The backups are likely due to heavy demand associated with a two-day closure at the terminal.

“Heavy traffic in the area of Long Point Road and Interstate 526,” Mount Pleasant Police warned on X. “Please use alternate route.”

“Mount Pleasant Police are present & assisting in areas where port traffic is backed up, ensuring public safety and helping our residents get to their homes,” said Mount Pleasant Mayor Will Haynie on his X (formerly known as Twitter) page.

The South Carolina Ports Authority experienced an alleged software issue that impacted a server at some point over the weekend and warned Sunday night of a delay during Monday morning opening operations. That delay was extended into Tuesday afternoon. Cargo pickup and drop offers were not accepted at marine terminals or inland ports during that time.

The SC Ports reopened late Tuesday after announcing its gate and yard operations were online. Port officials said gate hours would be extended on Thursday and Friday to accommodate the backlog.

“Gates will start processing trucks at 3 a.m. Thursday and Friday at Wando Welch and North Charleston Terminals. This is for dry containers only; not reefers,” said officials.