MERCEDES

• Latitude: -33.2434
•
• Longitude: -58.0318
•
• East Coast South America
•
• Port in Uruguay

Address: Mercedes Soriano Uruguay

Marine Port Description and Specifications: Port of Mercedes, Uruguay

General Overview

The Port of Mercedes is a significant river port situated on the Rio Negro, which flows into the larger Uruguay River. Located in the city of Mercedes, in the Soriano Department of Uruguay, this port serves as a vital regional hub for both commercial and recreational activities. The port plays a crucial role in the export of agricultural products and the import of goods for local industries.

Geographic and Strategic Importance

• Location: Mercedes, Soriano Department, Uruguay
• Coordinates: Approximately 33°15′S 58°0′W
• Waterway: Rio Negro (a tributary of the Uruguay River)

Infrastructure

1. Berthing Facilities:

   • The port features multiple berths designed to handle different types of vessels, including cargo, container ships, and leisure boats.
   • Two primary piers are available, each equipped to handle a range of cargo operations.

2. Depth:

   • The draft at the port can accommodate vessels with a draft of up to approximately 20 feet (6 meters), which is appropriate for riverine and smaller ocean-going vessels.

3. Storage and Warehousing:

   • The port has ample storage facilities, including open storage areas and covered warehouses suitable for grain, fertilizer, and general cargo.
   • Additional modern warehousing capabilities are being developed to increase storage capacity and efficiency.

4. Cranes and Equipment:

   • Equipped with mobile cranes, loading/unloading equipment, and forklifts to handle various types of cargo efficiently.
   • Specialized equipment may be available for bulk handling and containerized shipments.

Services

• Customs and Security: On-site customs facilities ensure that international trade compliance and security measures are maintained.
• Logistics and Transportation: The port is well-connected to the national road network, facilitating easy transport to and from inland locations.
• Support Services: Piloting services, tug assistance, bunkering, ship repair, and provisioning are available.

Cargo Handling

• Import/Export Commodities:
  • Exports: Primarily agricultural products such as grains (soybeans, corn, wheat), and animal products.
  • Imports: Fertilizers, machinery, consumer goods, and other industrial materials.
• Container Handling: Despite not being a major container port, Mercedes supports containerized cargo handling, particularly beneficial for local small-to-medium enterprises.

Recent Developments

• Upgrades: Recent investments have been made to modernize facilities and improve efficiency, including enhancements in cargo-handling equipment and logistics infrastructure.
• Projects: Initiatives to deepen the port basin to allow for larger vessels and to develop additional warehousing space are ongoing.

Environmental and Safety Regulations

• The Port of Mercedes adheres to international and national regulations regarding environmental protection, ensuring that operations minimize ecological impact.
• Safety standards conform to both maritime and labor regulations to ensure the safety of port workers and visiting crews.

Conclusion

The Port of Mercedes is a dynamic and strategically important river port in Uruguay, facilitating significant trade due to its advantageous location and comprehensive infrastructure. Continued investments in modernization and capacity expansion indicate a positive outlook for its future role in regional and international commerce.