INDIANA HARBOR

• USECH
• Latitude: 41.6675
• Longitude: -87.44
• Great Lakes
• Port in US

Location: East Chicago IN 46312 US

Phone number: +1-219-507-5131

Web-site: https://www.portsofindiana.com/port/indiana-harbor/

Indiana Harbor Port Overview:

Indiana Harbor is a significant industrial port located on the southwestern shore of Lake Michigan, within the township of East Chicago, Indiana, USA. It primarily supports the heavy industrial complex nearby, including steel mills and manufacturing plants.

Location:

• Geographical Position:
  • Latitude: 41° 38.4' N
  • Longitude: 87° 26' W
• Waterway: Lake Michigan, part of the Great Lakes waterway system.

Port Specifications:

Infrastructure:

• Docks and Berths:

  • Multiple deep-draft berths accommodating large vessels.
  • Separate facilities for handling bulk cargo (including iron ore, coal, limestone), general cargo, and liquid bulk products.

• Handling Facilities:

  • Bulk Cargo Terminals: Equipped with conveyor systems and storage facilities.
  • Liquid Bulk Terminals: Storage tanks for petroleum and chemical products.
  • General Cargo Warehouses: For handling various types of goods.
  • Steel Handling Facilities: Specific to the needs of the surrounding steel industry.

• Equipment:

  • Mobile and gantry cranes.
  • Conveyor and unloading systems.
  • Heavy-lift capabilities to support large industrial deliveries.

Channel and Depth:

• Approach Channel Depth: Generally maintained to depths of up to 27 feet (8.2 meters).
• Berth Depth: Often exceeds 27 feet (8.2 meters) to accommodate deep-draft vessels.
• Turning Basin: Provides sufficient space for maneuvering large vessels.

Services and Logistics:

• Pilotage: Available and mandatory for larger vessels.
• Towage: Tug services are available to assist with docking and undocking.
• Bunkering: Onsite fuel bunkering services are available for vessels.
• Repair Services: Facilities for minor vessel repairs and maintenance.

Transportation Links:

• Rail: Connected to major national railways with direct lines into the port.
• Road: Access to major highways for efficient overland transport.
• Pipeline: Infrastructure in place for the transfer of liquid bulk products.

Security and Compliance:

• Port Security: Complies with national and international security standards including ISPS (International Ship and Port Facility Security Code).
• Customs and Immigration: Services available to handle international cargo and crew documentation.

Operational Considerations:

• Weather Impact: Being located on Lake Michigan, the port can experience severe weather conditions, particularly during winter months, which may affect operations.
• Seasonal Variations: Cargo handling may be affected by seasonal variations in lake water levels.

Economic and Regional Importance:

• Industry Support: Integral to the regional economy, particularly the steel industry.
• Employment: Major source of employment for the region.
• Economic Impact: Significant contributor to both local and national economic activity due to its industrial output and connectivity.

Environmental Considerations:

• Regulations: Adheres to environmental regulations to control pollution and manage waste.
• Sustainability Initiatives: Ongoing efforts to reduce the environmental impact of port operations.

This comprehensive infrastructure and service offering make Indiana Harbor a key player in the regional economy, emphasizing its industrial and logistical significance. The port's facilities and strategic location ensure efficient handling of large quantities of goods and materials pivotal for the industrial base it serves.