Zarate, Argentina

Port Overview

Zárate is a port city in northeastern Buenos Aires Province, Argentina, located on the Paraná River about 90 km northwest of Buenos Aires. It is one of Argentina’s key container ports, ranking among the country’s top five by throughput. Zárate’s strategic importance comes from its role as a major gateway for automotive exports and imports, as well as its connection to the Zárate-Brazo Largo Bridge, linking Buenos Aires with the Mesopotamia region and neighboring countries. The port handles an annual capacity of approximately 500,000 TEU.

Facilities & Infrastructure

Zárate, Argentina features two main terminals: a dedicated Vehicle Terminal—the first of its kind in Latin America—and a multipurpose Container/Break Bulk Terminal. Key facilities include extensive berths for Ro-Ro, containers, grain, and bulk cargo, with over 1,000 meters of waterfront and 480 meters of berthing. The port is equipped with mobile dock cranes, bonded warehouses, and intermodal logistics areas. Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs) are not currently in use. Rail and truck connections support efficient cargo movement.

Container Terminals

Zárate, Argentina’s main container terminal features one dedicated container berth with a quay length of 480 meters and a draft of 10.6 meters. The terminal has an annual capacity of approximately 100,000 TEU. Automation is limited, with operations primarily managed by a real-time control center and manual equipment. Major operators include Terminal Zárate S.A., a partnership between Murchison and Cotia Trading.

Port Services

• Container handling: Dedicated container terminals with modern equipment for loading and unloading containers.
• Cargo operations: Facilities for general cargo, breakbulk, vehicles (Ro-Ro), grain, bulk, and project cargo.
• Ship services: Pilotage, tug assistance, minor repairs, water and fuel supply, garbage disposal, and medical facilities.
• Warehousing: On-site storage and warehousing for various cargo types, including bonded warehouses.
• Customs: Full customs clearance and inspection services for import and export cargo.

Global Connectivity

Zárate, Argentina is a key river port strategically located on the Paraná River, serving the Buenos Aires metropolitan area and the industrial belt of central Argentina. It connects by road and rail to major regions including Mesopotamia, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay. The port handles containers, vehicles, bulk, and general cargo, with shipping routes linking to South America, Europe, and Asia. Zárate is directly connected to Buenos Aires, Campana, and other regional ports, supporting both domestic and international trade.

Port Statistics

Port of Zarate, Argentina – Key Statistics (2024):

• TEU throughput: 79,787 (Jan–Sep 2024)
• World ranking: Not in global top 100 container ports
• Number of berths: 4
• Port area: Approximately 1 terminal; specific area not publicly listed
• Shipping lines: Served by major carriers including MOL (car carrier services), with regular container and Ro-Ro operations

Zarate is among the top three container ports in Buenos Aires Province, handling both container and vehicle exports.