The Port of Charleston’s container handling fell 3% in September due to a 28% drop in empty containers shipped. Volumes of loaded imports increased 5% according to official figures, with Panjiva data showing a 6% increase in China-sourced volumes offsetting growth of 4% from Europe. The former may reflect increased Panama Canal routed volumes. October data suggests a further 5% growth is possible despite the hurricane disruptions at the start of the month.