Beilun, China

Port Overview

Beilun is a coastal district of Ningbo in Zhejiang Province, China, and serves as the main deep-water port area of the Ningbo-Zhoushan Port complex. As part of the world’s third-busiest container port, Beilun is strategically located on the East China Sea, offering direct access to major international shipping routes. The port is a critical gateway for trade in eastern China and is renowned for its deep-water berths and advanced facilities. The annual container throughput of Ningbo-Zhoushan Port, including Beilun, exceeds 35 million TEUs.

Facilities & Infrastructure

Beilun, China, features a deep-sea port with a minimum depth of 17 meters, making it suitable for large vessels. The port includes terminals for various cargo types, such as containers and chemicals. Equipment includes fixed and mobile cranes, though specific details on automated guided vehicles (AGVs) are not prominent. The port is part of the larger Ningbo-Zhoushan complex, enhancing its cargo handling capabilities.

Container Terminals

Beilun, part of Ningbo-Zhoushan Port, operates several major container terminals with over 20 deep-water berths. The combined annual container handling capacity exceeds 20 million TEUs. The terminals feature advanced automation, including automated yard cranes and gate systems. Major operators include Ningbo Zhoushan Port Group and joint ventures with global carriers such as COSCO, Maersk, and CMA CGM. Beilun is recognized for its high efficiency and leading technology in port operations.

Port Services

Beilun Port in Ningbo, China offers comprehensive maritime services including:

Container Operations: Major container terminals with significant annual throughput capacity handling various vessel types.

Cargo Handling: Bulk cargo operations for steel coils, iron ore, logs, cement, petrochemical products, and general cargo with dedicated berths and high-capacity cranes.

Ship Services: Compulsory pilotage available 24 hours at designated anchorages, tug assistance, bunker fuel services at anchorage and berth, and quarantine facilities.

Port Infrastructure: Deep-water port with 17-meter draft capability, multiple anchorages, and connection to rail transportation networks.

Global Connectivity

Beilun Port, located in Ningbo, Zhejiang Province, is a major node in the Ningbo-Zhoushan Port complex—the world’s busiest cargo port network. It serves as a critical gateway for eastern China, connecting directly to the Yangtze River Delta and the broader East China region. Beilun handles a wide range of vessel types, including container ships, bulk carriers, and tankers, and is linked to global markets via deep-water channels that accommodate large vessels. Key shipping routes extend to major international markets in Asia, Europe, and North America, supporting both transshipment and direct export-import activities. The port’s strategic location and advanced infrastructure make it a central hub in China’s maritime Silk Road, facilitating efficient trade flows between domestic industrial centers and global destinations.

Port Statistics

Beilun Port (Ningbo-Zhoushan), China – Key Statistics (2025):

• TEU Throughput: Approximately 39 million TEU annually
• World Ranking: 3rd busiest container port globally
• Number of Berths: Over 190 deep-water berths
• Port Area: Covers more than 30 square kilometers
• Shipping Lines: Served by over 200 international shipping lines, connecting to 600+ ports worldwide