CHICAGO ANCH

• Latitude: 41.8098
• Longitude: -87.438
• Great Lakes
• Anchorage in US

Location: Chicago IL US

Marine Port Description and Specifications: Chicago Anchor (CHICAGO ANCH), United States

Location:

• Geographic Coordinates: Approximately 41.8781° N latitude and 87.6298° W longitude
• Region: Located on the southwestern shore of Lake Michigan, in the state of Illinois.

Harbor Characteristics:

• Type: Inland port situated along Lake Michigan, which is connected to the Illinois Waterway and subsequently the Mississippi River, making it a significant hub for inland and Great Lakes shipping.
• Access: Direct access to the Great Lakes and beyond via the Saint Lawrence Seaway.

Facilities and Infrastructure:

• Anchorage Areas: Designated anchorage areas for vessels awaiting berth or performing lightering operations.
• Docks/Piers: Multiple docking facilities catering to general cargo, bulk cargo, and container handling. Includes specialized docks for grain, steel, and other commodities.
• Cargo Handling Equipment: Modern cargo handling equipment including cranes, forklifts, conveyor belts, and pipelines for liquid bulk transfer.
• Storage: Availability of warehouses and open storage areas for various types of cargo.

Maritime Services:

• Pilotage: Compulsory pilotage services to assist vessels in navigating Lake Michigan and the port's channels.
• Towage: Tugboat services available for maneuvering vessels within the harbor and assisting in berthing and unberthing.
• Bunkering: Facilities for refueling ships with diesel or other marine fuels.
• Ship Repair: Basic repair and maintenance services, with more extensive dry dock facilities located nearby.

Port Operations:

• Operating Hours: Typically operates 24/7, subject to weather conditions and seasonal variations applicable to the Great Lakes region.
• Security: Adherence to international and national port security protocols, including ISPS code compliance. On-site security personnel and systems for monitoring and controlling access.
• Customs and Inspections: U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) presence for the clearance of cargo and vessels. USDA and other relevant agencies for agricultural and environmental inspections.

Connectivity:

• Rail Access: Connected to major national rail networks providing seamless cargo transfer from ship to rail.
• Road Access: Well-developed road infrastructure providing access to interstate highways for efficient cargo movement by truck.
• Air Access: Proximity to major airports, including O'Hare International Airport and Midway International Airport, for air cargo operations and passenger connections.

Environmental Considerations:

• Sustainable Practices: Implementation of environmentally sustainable practices for waste management, emissions control, and water quality protection.
• Regulations: Compliance with federal and state environmental regulations governing port operations and maritime activities.

Economic Impact:

• Role: Serves as a vital logistics and transportation hub for the Midwest, supporting regional and national trade.
• Employment: Significant employment opportunities within the port and ancillary services, contributing to the local economy.

For specific details on operational guidelines, tariffs, and scheduling, it is advisable to refer to the official port authority or harbor master's office at the Port of Chicago.