Durazzo, Albania

Port Overview

Durazzo (Durrës) is Albania’s principal port city, located on the Adriatic Sea about 30 km west of Tirana. As the country’s second largest city, it serves as Albania’s main maritime gateway and is strategically important for trade between the Balkans and Western Europe, especially via Italian ports. The Port of Durrës ranks among the largest on the Adriatic, handling over 3.4 million tonnes of cargo annually and accommodating approximately 300,000 TEU containers per year. Its location and capacity make it a vital hub for regional logistics and commerce.

Facilities & Infrastructure

Durazzo (Durrës) is Albania’s main port, featuring 11 quays with depths from 7.5 to 11.5 meters. Key terminals include a container terminal, general cargo terminal, ferry terminal, and a dedicated bulk terminal. Cargo facilities handle general cargo, grain, containers, minerals, and bulk goods. Equipment includes mobile harbor cranes, ship-to-shore cranes, and rubber-tyred gantry cranes. The port is well-connected by road, but most terminals lack direct rail access, and AGVs are not currently in use.

Container Terminals

Durazzo (Durrës) container terminal has 2 dedicated berths and an annual handling capacity of approximately 180,000–250,000 TEU. The terminal is semi-automated, featuring modern container handling equipment and advanced tracking systems, but not full automation. The main operator is Durres Container Terminal SH.A. (DCT), with major shipping lines such as CMA CGM, COSCO, X-Press Feeders, and ZIM calling at the port.

Port Services

• Container handling: Modern terminal with dedicated container storage, advanced tracking systems, and equipment for efficient loading and unloading.
• Cargo operations: Facilities for bulk, breakbulk, Ro-Ro, and general cargo; professional stevedoring; 24/7 terminal operations.
• Ship services: Bunker fuel supply, fresh water, minor repairs, pilotage, waste management, and vessel traffic management.
• Warehousing: Long-term and short-term storage solutions for various cargo types, including specialized storage areas.
• Customs: On-site customs clearance, documentation support, and efficient processing for import/export cargo.

Global Connectivity

Durazzo, or Durrës, is Albania's primary port, connecting the country to major markets through routes to Bari, Ancona, and Trieste. It serves as a gateway for trade between Albania and Southern Europe, particularly Italy. The port handles a significant portion of Albania's international maritime traffic, serving regions including Albania, Kosovo, and North Macedonia. Its strategic location supports transit networks and passenger ferries, enhancing regional connectivity.

Port Statistics

Port of Durazzo (Durrës), Albania – Key Statistics (2025):

• TEU throughput: Approximately 80,000–90,000 TEU annually (estimate; official 2025 TEU not published, but container traffic remains modest).
• World ranking: Not ranked among the top 100 global container ports.
• Number of berths: 11 commercial berths.
• Port area: About 80 hectares (land and water combined).
• Shipping lines: Served by major regional and Mediterranean lines, including MSC, CMA CGM, and local operators.