Infrastructure

Grow Your Business with Multimodal Global Access 

150+

Million Customers Within a Day’s Drive (ACS, 2022)

4

International Airports + 2 Seaports (NCDOT, NC Ports, 2025)

3,100

Miles of Freight Railroad (NC Railroads, 2025)

North Carolina Freight Carrier
Infrastructure

Strategic East Coast Location 

North Carolina is the ideal location for businesses to prosper due to its central position on the east coast. Companies can take advantage of a well-connected highway and rail system that makes reaching domestic markets easier. The state also offers 4 international airports and 2 seaports for reaching international markets. 

aerial view of chatham siler city megasite

Site Development Initiatives

The Megasite Readiness and Selectsite Readiness Programs were established to assist with site identification and development in preparation for the recruitment of impactful economic development projects.

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North Carolina’s efficient and dependable access to domestic and global markets gives its businesses the ability to spread influence all over. A strong infrastructure supports profit growth.

6th
Charlotte Has the World’s 6th Busiest Airport 
2,200
miles of Class 1 Railroad split between CSX and Norfolk Southern
45
Nonstop Daily Flights to Intl. Destinations
3
Ports and 5 Intermodal Facilities 
5
Foreign Trade Zones 

Strategically Located in the Center of Commerce 

North Carolina’s prime location connects you to customers and suppliers up and down the Eastern Seaboard. A robust highway and rail system ensures that you can move your freight and reach major markets to expand your service offerings quickly.

Proximity map of NC

Global Accessibility 

Your people and cargo can travel effortlessly from 10 airports that service over 250 destinations (45 international). Charlotte Douglas Airport is the world’s 6th busiest, so you’re virtually a stop away from any major business center on Earth.

North Carolina Globally Accessible via Airport

Efficient Shipping Capabilities

North Carolina offers two deep water ports with fast turn times and capacity to support 4 million+ tons of general cargo annually. Additionally, an inland port in Charlotte sits at the heart of the Southeast’s manufacturing and distribution sites.

North Carolina Shipping Capabilities

This Rail System Hauls It All 

Over 3,000 miles of freight railroad along mountains and coasts and five intermodal terminals interconnect to ship your freight statewide and beyond. Discretionary grant programs are available for site development needs along active rail lines.

North Carolina Rail Systems

Low Utilities, High Profits  

A dependable and affordable utility and water supply guarantee that your operations will run smoothly. Our commercial electricity costs are 26% below the national average and water costs are third lowest in the nation.

North Carolina Solar Panels

Poised and Prepared for Growth  

Investments in infrastructure will ensure North Carolina can support its fast-growing population. Our airports are investing billions into growth and expansion projects like new runways, terminal expansions and additions, and land improvements.

North Carolina Uptown Business Growth

“North Carolina was chosen for the location, for the utility and the transportation advantages, and the state contains an exceptional workforce. In addition, we can service our customer base quicker and provide more cost-effective transportation.” 

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Why is North Carolina a strategic location for businesses?

    North Carolina’s East Coast location offers quick access to major US markets, plus global reach through international airports and seaports. Its central position, strong infrastructure, and low business costs make it ideal for growth.

  • How does North Carolina’s transportation infrastructure support business?

    North Carolina’s highways, rail lines, airports, and seaports help companies move goods efficiently, lower shipping costs, and reach customers faster—both nationwide and around the world.

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The EDPNC helps businesses large and small succeed in North Carolina. For assistance, fill out the form and a member of our team will be in touch.

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Bryn Covington

Bryn Covington

Business Development Specialist