PUERTO BARRIOS
- Latitude: 15.7323 •
- Longitude: -88.6072 •
- East Coast Central America •
- Port in Guatemala
Address: Puerto Barrios 18001 Guatemala
Web-site: https://www.puertobarriosport.com.gt
Puerto Barrios is the primary cargo port on the Caribbean coast of Guatemala, located in the department of Izabal. It plays a crucial role in the country's import and export activities, particularly because of its strategic position on the Atlantic Ocean, which facilitates trade with North America, Europe, and other parts of the Americas.
Description:
- Location: The port is situated along the western edge of the Gulf of Honduras, part of the Caribbean Sea, in the municipality of Puerto Barrios, Izabal, Guatemala.
- Coordinates: Approximately 15.7167° N latitude and 88.5835° W longitude.
- Type: Cargo port catering predominantly to containerized and bulk cargo.
Specifications:
General Facilities:
- Terminals: The port has multiple terminals, including container terminals, general cargo terminals, and specialized bulk terminals.
- Container Terminal: Equipped with modern gantry cranes, reach stackers, and other handling equipment to efficiently manage containerized cargo.
- Bulk Handling Facilities: Facilities designed for handling bulk commodities, including grains, minerals, and chemicals.
Berths and Depth:
- Berths: Multiple berths with varying lengths to accommodate different vessel sizes.
- Draft Depth: The channel depth typically accommodates vessels with a draft of up to around 11 meters or more, but this can vary depending on specific berths and seasonal changes.
Cargo Handling:
- Container Capacity: The port can handle a significant number of TEUs (Twenty-foot Equivalent Units) annually, serving as one of the primary conduits for containerized goods in and out of Guatemala.
- Bulk Handling Capacity: Volume handling capabilities for bulk and breakbulk cargo are robust, supported by appropriate storage facilities.
Additional Services:
- Customs and Clearance: On-site customs and inspection services to streamline the import and export processes.
- Storage: Warehouses and open storage areas available for both short-term and long-term storage needs.
- Logistics Support: Various logistics services, including freight forwarding, trucking, and rail connections to facilitate inland transportation.
Infrastructure:
- Access Roads: Well-developed road infrastructure connecting the port to major cities and industrial areas in Guatemala.
- Rail Links: The port is connected via railway lines, further aiding the transport of goods to and from the hinterlands.
- Security: Equipped with comprehensive security measures, including surveillance systems and customs controls, to ensure the safety and integrity of cargo.
Economic and Operational Impact:
Puerto Barrios is instrumental in the economic landscape of Guatemala due to its facilitation of international trade. It supports a wide range of industries by providing essential import/export services and contributes significantly to local and national economies through job creation and business opportunities.
A part of the expansion and modernization programs has been aimed at increasing capacity and efficiency to handle growing trade volumes. Investment in infrastructure and technology helps maintain Puerto Barrios' competitive edge as a major Caribbean port.
Conclusion:
Puerto Barrios continues to be a vital asset to Guatemala's maritime trade infrastructure, providing pivotal services and capabilities to support diverse cargo types and facilitating international trade routes. Its strategic location, combined with modern facilities and comprehensive services, makes it a cornerstone of the country's logistics and trade framework.