Coatzacoalcos, Mexico
Coatzacoalcos is a major Gulf port and industrial hub linking Mexico’s Atlantic and Pacific coasts.
Port Overview
Coatzacoalcos is a major port city located in southeastern Veracruz, Mexico, at the mouth of the Coatzacoalcos River on the Gulf of Mexico. It ranks among the largest ports in the region and serves as a key transportation and industrial hub, particularly for petroleum exports and interoceanic trade via the Isthmus of Tehuantepec. The port’s strategic position connects central Mexico with the Yucatán Peninsula and the Pacific coast. Coatzacoalcos handles an annual container throughput of approximately 300,000 TEU, supporting both national and international maritime commerce.
Facilities & Infrastructure
Coatzacoalcos port features multiple specialized terminals, including dedicated facilities for petrochemicals, bulk, general cargo, and containers. Key terminals include the Pajaritos Terminal for petroleum products and private chemical storage terminals. The port offers 1,200 meters of berths, container storage for 15,000 TEU, and advanced cargo handling equipment such as gantry cranes and mobile harbor cranes. Facilities include liquid chemical storage tanks, multipurpose warehouses, and modern tracking systems. Automated guided vehicles (AGVs) are not currently highlighted among its main equipment.
Container Terminals
Coatzacoalcos container terminal has 11 berths and a total berth length of 1,200 meters. The terminal offers a storage capacity of 15,000 TEU and is equipped with modern cargo handling equipment, including gantry and mobile harbor cranes. Automation is moderate, featuring advanced tracking and management systems but not full automation. The port is operated by the Coatzacoalcos Port Authority, with services provided by multiple local and international operators.
Port Services
- Container handling: Facilities for loading and unloading containers, with regular container vessel calls and efficient turnaround times.
- Cargo operations: Handling of bulk, general, liquid, and petrochemical cargoes, including specialized terminals for oil, chemicals, and fertilizers.
- Ship services: Pilotage, towage, bunkering, limited ship repairs, and marine supplies.
- Warehousing: On-site storage and warehousing for various cargo types, including bonded and private facilities.
- Customs: Full customs clearance services, with an authorized fiscal precinct for import/export processing.
Global Connectivity
Coatzacoalcos, Mexico is a major Gulf port with direct rail, road, and maritime links to key Mexican industrial centers, including Mexico City, Veracruz, Puebla, and Oaxaca. It connects with Salina Cruz on the Pacific via the Interoceanic Corridor, and offers shipping routes to the United States (notably Mobile, Alabama), Europe (Portugal’s Sines), and other global markets. The port serves petrochemical, agricultural, and manufactured goods, supporting both regional and international trade.
Port Statistics
Port of Coatzacoalcos, Mexico – Key Statistics (2025):
- TEU throughput: Approximately 220,000 TEU annually
- World ranking: Outside the global top 100 container ports
- Number of berths: 17
- Port area: 160 hectares
- Shipping lines: Served by major carriers including Maersk, MSC, CMA CGM, and regional operators
The port is a key Gulf of Mexico gateway, supporting the Interoceanic Corridor and handling diverse cargo types.
