GULFPORT

• USGPT
• Latitude: 30.3627
• Longitude: -89.0905
• Gulf of Mexico
• Port in US

Location: Gulfport MS 39501 US

Phone number: +1-228-865-4300

Web-site: https://shipmspa.com/

The Port of Gulfport, located in Gulfport, Mississippi, is a strategically important deep-water seaport on the Gulf of Mexico. It plays a vital role in import and export activities, particularly for the southern United States. Below are detailed descriptions and specifications of the Port of Gulfport:

General Information

• Location: Gulfport, Mississippi, USA
• Coordinates: Approximately 30.3667° N latitude, 89.0928° W longitude
• Operator: Mississippi State Port Authority

Harbor and Access

• Waterway: The port is situated on the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway, which connects to other major ports along the Gulf of Mexico and the Mississippi River.
• Channel Depth: The main shipping channel has a maintained depth of approximately 36 feet (about 11 meters), suitable for large ocean-going vessels.
• Channel Width: The primary channel width varies but is generally wide enough to accommodate large vessels.

Facilities and Infrastructure

• Terminals: The Port of Gulfport has several terminals, which include container terminals, breakbulk terminals, and bulk cargo facilities.

  • Container Terminal: Equipped with multiple gantry cranes capable of handling modern container ships.
  • Breakbulk Terminal: Provides facilities for handling non-containerized cargo such as bags, pallets, crates, and other units.
  • Bulk Terminal: Handles commodities like grains, minerals, and other bulk cargoes.

• Berths: The port has multiple berths with varying lengths to accommodate different types of vessels.

  • Berthing Lengths: Ranges generally from 600 to 1,200 feet per berth.
  • Total Berthing Space: Approximately 6,000 feet.

• Storage: On-dock and near-dock storage facilities include:

  • Warehouses: Over 300,000 square feet of warehouse space available for various types of cargo.
  • Open Storage: Extensive open-air storage available for bulk and breakbulk commodities.

Utilities and Services

• Cranes and Equipment: The port is equipped with both mobile and fixed cranes, forklifts, reach stackers, and other cargo-handling equipment.
• IT Infrastructure: Advanced IT and communication systems for efficient cargo tracking and port operations.
• Customs: On-site U.S. Customs and Border Protection services ensure smooth processing of international cargo.

Connectivity

• Rail Access: Direct rail service is available through Class I railroads such as CSX Transportation, providing connections to the national rail network.
• Highways: Immediate access to major highways including Interstate 10 (I-10), facilitating efficient cargo transport to and from the port.
• Airport: Proximity to Gulfport-Biloxi International Airport offers additional options for air cargo and passenger travel.

Types of Cargo

• Containers: Significant throughput of containerized goods.
• Breakbulk: Forest products, steel, heavy machinery, and more.
• Bulk: Grains, mineral ores, and other bulk commodities.
• Ro-Ro: Facilities for Roll-on/Roll-off cargo such as automobiles and heavy equipment.

Economic Impact

• Job Creation: The port directly and indirectly supports thousands of jobs in the region.
• Trade Volume: Handles millions of tons of cargo annually, contributing significantly to the local and national economy.

Strategic Initiatives

• Expansion Plans: Ongoing projects to deepen the channel and increase berth capacity.
• Sustainability: Initiatives for reducing environmental impact, including eco-friendly handling practices and investment in green technologies.

Governance and Security

• Maritime Security: Complies with International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code standards.
• Port Authority: Governed by the Mississippi State Port Authority, which oversees operations, development, and regulatory compliance.

The Port of Gulfport continues to be a vital maritime hub due to its strategic location, comprehensive facilities, and robust infrastructure, driving regional economic growth and facilitating global trade.