Shanghai, China

Port Overview

Shanghai is located on China’s eastern coast at the mouth of the Yangtze River. Covering approximately 6,340 square kilometers, it is China’s largest city by population and a global financial and shipping hub. The Port of Shanghai is the world’s busiest container port, handling over 47 million TEU annually. Its strategic position makes it vital for international trade, connecting China with global markets and serving as a gateway for imports and exports throughout East Asia.

Facilities & Infrastructure

Shanghai Port features major terminals at Waigaoqiao, Yangshan Deep Water Port, and Wusongkou, with 43 container terminals and 191 berths. Its advanced cargo facilities include specialized terminals for containers, bulk, break-bulk, and liquid cargo. The port operates 156 container cranes, including automated quay cranes, and utilizes over 100 automated guided vehicles (AGVs) at Yangshan’s fully automated terminal. High-tech systems and extensive warehousing support efficient, 24/7 operations for the world’s busiest container port.

Container Terminals

Shanghai Container Terminals

Shanghai Port operates through three major terminal complexes: Wusongkou, Waigaoqiao, and the Yangshan Deep-Water Port. The port is managed by Shanghai International Port Group (SIPG) and handles over 50 million TEUs annually, making it the world's busiest container port.

Yangshan stands out as a fully automated deep-water facility built on reclaimed islands, designed to accommodate the largest container vessels. It accounts for approximately 52% of Shanghai's total container throughput. The port has implemented advanced automation including dual-berth operations and optimized channel management systems to maximize efficiency and reduce vessel idle times.

Port Services

• Container handling: Advanced terminals with automated cranes, 24/7 operations, and high throughput for all major container types.
• Cargo operations: Specialized facilities for bulk, break-bulk, liquid, and general cargo, supporting efficient loading, unloading, and transfer.
• Ship services: Pilotage, tugboat assistance, vessel maintenance, bunkering, and agency services.
• Warehousing: Extensive storage options, including refrigerated and hazardous goods warehouses, integrated with road and rail links.
• Customs: Streamlined customs clearance, robust security, and digital systems for efficient import/export processing.

Global Connectivity

Shanghai, China’s port is the world’s busiest, serving as a critical gateway for global trade. It connects with over 500 ports in more than 200 countries, linking China’s Yangtze River Delta and major inland provinces to international markets. Key shipping routes extend to North America, Europe, and Asia, with major trade partners including the U.S., Japan, Germany, and South Korea. The port’s advanced infrastructure supports efficient, high-volume container movement on global shipping lanes.

Port Statistics

Port of Shanghai Key Statistics (2025):

• TEU Throughput: Over 27 million TEUs (Jan–Jun 2025); on track to surpass 50 million TEUs for the year
• World Ranking: 1st, world’s busiest container port
• Number of Berths: More than 200, including deep-water berths at Yangshan
• Port Area: Approximately 3,619 hectares
• Shipping Lines: Serviced by over 200 international shipping lines, connecting to 600+ ports worldwide