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    The San Francisco Port Commission features towering cranes against a darkened cityscape and a busy harbor scene

    San Francisco Port Commission

    California
    West Coast

    Overview

    The San Francisco Port Commission governs and manages the Port of San Francisco, a significant maritime gateway located on the western edge of the United States in California. Formed through the transfer of authority from the State to the City and County of San Francisco in 1968 under the Burton Act, the Commission oversees sovereign tide and submerged lands along the city’s renowned waterfront. Its five members are appointed by the Mayor and confirmed by the Board of Supervisors. The Port plays a crucial role in fostering regional and international maritime commerce, navigation, fisheries, and environmental restoration. Today, the San Francisco waterfront is not only a hub for shipping and cruise operations but also a vibrant area supporting economic activity, recreation, tourism, and cultural events. The Port’s stewardship ensures the maintenance of this vital historic and economic asset, balancing commercial development with public uses and conservation of its unique bayfront environment.

    Facilities

    • Pier 27 Cruise Terminal
    • Pier 35
    • Pier 80 Maritime Terminal
    • China Basin Ferry Terminal
    • Fisherman’s Wharf
    • South Beach Harbor
    • Exploratorium Pier
    • Pier 1½, 3, and 5 Historic Waterfront
    • Herb Caen Way Promenade

    Operating Hours

    Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (office hours); Pier and facility hours vary by operator and vessel schedule.

    Shipping Lines

    Major carriers serving this port

    1
    Maersk
    2
    MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company
    3
    CMA CGM
    4
    Hapag-Lloyd
    5
    COSCO Shipping
    6
    Evergreen Marine

    Tools & Resources

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    Data & Reports

    Official statistics, research reports, and data tracking for San Francisco Port Commission.

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    Frequently Asked Questions

    Common inquiries about operations and logistics at San Francisco Port Commission.

    What is the process and how long does customs clearance take for import cargo through US seaports?

    Typical import flow is vessel arrival, berth assignment, container discharge, customs review, release, dray pickup, and final delivery. Standard clearance may be same day to several days depending on documentation and exams.

    What is the process and how long does export cargo take through US seaports?

    Typical export flow is inland dray to terminal, terminal gate-in, documentation and filing, vessel loading, and departure. Timing depends on cutoff windows, bookings, inspections, and vessel schedule.

    For More Info

    Third-party resources, government portals, ratings, and more.

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