Which Port Handles the Most Cargo in the UK
When it comes to the logistics and maritime industries in the United Kingdom, understanding which port handles the most cargo is essential for anyone involved in shipping, trade, and supply chain management. The UK, an island nation, heavily relies on its ports to facilitate international trade, with millions of tonnes of cargo passing through its docks annually. Among the various ports, the one that consistently stands out in terms of cargo volume is the Port of Felixstowe.
The Port of Felixstowe: The UK’s Cargo Hub
Situated on the east coast of England, the Port of Felixstowe is the largest and busiest container port in the UK. Handling almost half of the country’s containerised trade, Felixstowe is a critical node in the UK’s maritime infrastructure. Its strategic location, just 89 miles from London, makes it an ideal gateway for goods entering and leaving the country.

Cargo Volume and Capacity
Felixstowe handles over 4 million TEUs (Twenty-Foot Equivalent Units) annually, making it not only the largest port in the UK by cargo volume but also one of the largest in Europe. This high capacity is supported by its extensive facilities, which include deep-water berths capable of accommodating the world’s largest container ships. The port’s infrastructure is continuously upgraded to handle increasing cargo volumes, ensuring that it remains competitive on a global scale.
Key Features Facilitating Cargo Handling
Several key features contribute to the Port of Felixstowe’s dominance in cargo handling:
- State-of-the-Art Infrastructure: Felixstowe is equipped with advanced container handling equipment, including numerous gantry cranes and automated stacking cranes, which significantly enhance the efficiency and speed of cargo operations.
- Deep-Water Berths: The port’s deep-water berths allow it to handle the largest container ships currently in operation. This capability is crucial as shipping lines increasingly deploy ultra-large container vessels to maximise economies of scale.
- Extensive Rail and Road Links: Felixstowe is well-connected to the rest of the UK through an extensive network of rail and road links. This connectivity ensures smooth and efficient inland transportation of cargo, reducing congestion and delays.
- Customs and Security: The port has robust customs and security systems in place, facilitating swift clearance of goods and enhancing the overall efficiency of cargo handling.
Economic Impact and Employment
The economic impact of the Port of Felixstowe is substantial. It plays a pivotal role in the UK’s trade, contributing significantly to the national economy. The port supports thousands of jobs, both directly and indirectly, across various sectors including shipping, logistics, and manufacturing. Moreover, Felixstowe’s operations have a ripple effect on local businesses, from service providers to retailers, bolstering regional economic growth.
Environmental Initiatives
In addition to its operational capabilities, the Port of Felixstowe is also committed to environmental sustainability. Initiatives such as reducing carbon emissions, utilising electric-powered equipment, and implementing energy-efficient technologies are integral to its operations. These efforts not only minimise the environmental impact of cargo handling but also align with broader national and global sustainability goals.
Looking ahead, the Port of Felixstowe is set to maintain its leadership in cargo handling through continuous investment in infrastructure and technology. The port’s expansion projects, including the development of new berths and enhancement of existing facilities, are designed to meet the growing demands of global trade.
The Port of Felixstowe’s position as the leading cargo handler in the UK is a testament to its robust infrastructure, strategic location, and commitment to efficiency and sustainability. For businesses and stakeholders in the shipping and logistics industries, Felixstowe represents a vital hub that ensures the seamless movement of goods, driving the UK’s economic prosperity. As global trade evolves, the port’s ongoing developments and enhancements will undoubtedly keep it at the forefront of the maritime industry. The Port of Felixstowe is 1 of 4 ports we operate in, with the other 3 being Ipswich, Tilbury and Southampton. Get in touch with us if you need our services in these ports.