The Port of Felixstowe is the largest and busiest container port in the UK and is one of the busiest in Europe. Located in the heart of the charming seaside town of Felixstowe in Suffolk, the port plays a vital role in keeping the UK’s supply chains moving.
As Britain’s largest container port, it’s no surprise that the Port of Felixstowe is the obvious choice for several logistics’ companies. Nearly half of the UK’s containerised trade goes through the Port of Felixstowe, where many hauliers operate, and it efficiently handles more than 3.85 million TEUs.
The Transmode team are often called for our container haulage services, so we know it well. But what exactly makes Port Felixstowe popular and why is it so important in UK logistics?
You might be surprised by how much there is to know about the Port of Felixstowe.
All About The Port of Felixstowe
The Port of Felixstowe is more than just a port—it’s a vital hub in the UK’s supply chain, handling nearly half of all containerised trade in the country.
Inside the UK’s Largest Container Port
The port of Felixstowe spans 3,383 hectares with 9 berths, has the capacity to store a massive 152,000 containers across its yards and employs more than 2,500 people, with hundreds more based around the port.
There are two primary container terminals at the port, the Trinity Terminal and the Landguard Terminal, making container haulage a breeze. It also features a continuous quay spanning 2.3 kilometres (1.4 miles), equipped with an incredible 28 ship-to-shore gantry cranes.
Port of Felixstowe is also so large that it can accommodate some of the world’s largest vessels, such as the Evergreen A class that carries up to 21,700 TEUs.
Who Owns and Operates The Port?
The port of Felixstowe is owned and operated by Hutchinson Ports, a subsidiary of Hutchison Holdings Ltd. It is managed by the Felixstowe Dock & Railway Company, who are responsible for the everyday operations.
This company was established under the Felixstowe Railway and Pier Act of 1875, which is an Act of Parliament. As a result, it’s just one of a handful of limited companies in the United Kingdom that don’t have ‘Limited’ in their names.
How Much Traffic Does Port Felixstowe See?
As the busiest container port in the United Kingdom, the Port of Felixstowe handles around 4 million TEUs each year. Its strategic location on the east coast makes it one of the most important gateways for goods entering and leaving the UK, with approximately 2,000 vessel calls annually.
The port is estimated to manage over 40% of the UK’s containerised trade, playing a vital role in the country’s supply chain, including goods from food to retail cargo.
Why is The Port of Felixstowe So Popular?
There are many reasons why the Port of Felixstowe has remained one of the most important and widely used ports in the UK.
One of the key factors is its deep-water access, allowing the port to accommodate some of the world’s largest container ships, enabling the port to provide efficient loading and unloading of cargo, helping to keep the goods moving quickly through the supply chain.
Also, the location is ideal due to its proximity to major transport networks. Felixstowe provides strong connections to distribution centres and key cities across the UK. This is helpful for the quick and efficient transportation of goods; it’s this connectivity that makes it such a popular choice for businesses to choose this port as their preferred gateway for imports and exports.
Is Port of Felixstowe Still The Biggest Port in Europe?
It may be the largest container port in the UK, but it is not the largest in Europe. Other ports, such as Rotterdam and Antwerp, give it a run for its money, with the Port of Rotterdam in the Netherlands currently being ranked as the largest port in Europe.
However, whilst it’s no longer the largest in Europe, it still plays a vital role in global logistics.
Felixstowe Is A Key Gateway For UK Trade
Around 2,000 ships call at the Port of Felixstowe each year, with almost four million TEUs on board each year. These ships come from at least 17 different shipping line operators in Felixstowe, who offer 33 services to and from at least 700 ports worldwide.
However, the Port of Felixstowe is only one part of a much larger logistics network. With thousands of staff working across the site, the port is able to work seamlessly with road container transport service providers to ensure containers move efficiently to and from their final destinations across the UK.
Looking for Haulage Services To & From Port Felixstowe?
If you’re looking for haulage services to or from Port Felixstowe, working with an experienced logistics provider can help ensure your cargo reaches its destination safely and on time. Here at Transmode, we specialise in container haulage, providing a solution tailored to your operational needs.
Get in touch with our team today to discuss your requirements or learn more about our services.
Written by Moose
