Ningbo, China
Ningbo is a historic maritime hub and home to the world’s largest cargo port, connecting China globally.
Port Overview
Ningbo is a major port city in southeastern Zhejiang province, China, located on the southern edge of the Yangtze River Delta. It ranks among China’s largest cities and is home to Ningbo-Zhoushan Port, the world’s busiest port by cargo tonnage and consistently among the top three global container ports. Strategically positioned at the intersection of the Maritime Silk Road and the Yangtze River Economic Belt, Ningbo is a vital gateway for international trade. The port handles over 35 million TEU annually, underscoring its global shipping importance.
Facilities & Infrastructure
Ningbo Zhoushan Port features major terminals in Beilun, Zhenhai, Daxie, Meishan, and Chuanshan, supporting containers, bulk cargo, crude oil, and chemicals. It operates over 200 large deepwater berths, including specialized terminals for 400,000 DWT vessels. The port is equipped with advanced container cranes, over 45 bridge cranes, 160 gantry cranes, and automated guided vehicles (AGVs), alongside extensive warehousing and logistics facilities for efficient cargo handling and distribution.
Container Terminals
Ningbo-Zhoushan Port operates multiple container terminals with over 200 deep-water berths, including more than 115 for vessels above 50,000 DWT. Its annual container capacity exceeds 39 million TEUs. The port features advanced automation, such as fully automated customs clearance and smart terminal operations, with green electricity powering key terminals. Ningbo Zhoushan Port Group is the major operator, supported by strategic partnerships with global shipping lines.
Port Services
- Container handling: Extensive facilities for loading, unloading, and transshipment of containers, supporting global trade routes.
- Cargo operations: Comprehensive services for bulk, general, and project cargo, including specialized handling for various commodities.
- Ship services: Vessel berthing, bunkering, ship agency, pilotage, and marine logistics support.
- Warehousing: Large-scale storage solutions, including bonded and non-bonded warehouses for different cargo types.
- Customs: Efficient customs clearance, inspection, and documentation services to facilitate import and export activities.
Global Connectivity
Ningbo-Zhoushan Port is one of the world’s most connected ports, linking to over 600 ports in more than 200 countries and regions. It serves the Yangtze River Delta and broader mainland China, acting as a key gateway for exports and imports. The port operates over 300 container shipping routes, including express lines to major markets in Europe, North America, South America, the Middle East, and Asia, supporting global trade flows.
Port Statistics
Port: Ningbo-Zhoushan, China
TEU Throughput (2024/2025): Approximately 39 million TEU annually
World Ranking: 3rd largest container port globally
Number of Berths: Over 190 berths, including more than 80 deep-water berths
Port Area: Covers over 1,000 square kilometers
Shipping Lines: Serviced by 308 container shipping routes, connecting to major ports on five continents
