Introduction

As a country with over 1,500 miles of Pacific coastline, Peru relies heavily on its seaports to connect with global markets. With over 100 port facilities across its marine, river and lake systems, Peru’s maritime infrastructure plays a crucial role in its economy. In this article, we’ll explore the top 5 major ports that serve as Peru’s gateways for international trade and examine how FreightAmigo’s Digital Platform can support efficient logistics through these key hubs.

Key facts about Peru’s port system:

• Over 100 port facilities across marine, river and lake systems
• 91% of total export volumes move through seaports
• 65% of total export value (FOB) handled by ports
• 90% of Peru’s exports are transported by sea

1. Port of Callao

Located in the capital city of Lima, the Port of Callao stands as Peru’s primary maritime gateway, handling the lion’s share of the country’s sea trade. Some key features of this bustling port include:

• Handles 70% of Peru’s total loading and discharging of cargo
• 16 meters deep, allowing for heavy shipments
• Connected to Lima’s industrial zone and the rest of the country
• Linked to Jorge Chávez International Airport
• Average anchorage time: 19 hours at South Pier, 23 hours at North Pier

As the busiest port in Peru, Callao faces challenges with congestion and efficiency. FreightAmigo’s Digital Platform can help freight forwarders and shippers optimize their operations through this vital hub by providing real-time visibility, streamlined documentation, and data-driven insights to reduce delays and costs.

2. Port of Paita

Situated in the northern region of Piura, the Port of Paita is Peru’s second-largest container port and third in overall cargo movement. Key aspects include:

• Operated by Terminales Portuarios Euroandinos S.A. (TPE) since 2009
• Handled over 215,000 TEUs in 2016
• Export-oriented, with 95% of cargo being containerized exports
• Major exports: fish products, agro-industrial goods (grapes, mango, coffee, bananas)

For businesses shipping through Paita, FreightAmigo’s Digital Logistics Solution can provide valuable support in managing containerized exports. Our platform offers tools for efficient booking, tracking, and documentation management, helping exporters streamline their operations and reduce administrative burdens.

3. Port of Matarani

Located 452 miles south of Callao, the Port of Matarani serves southern Peru and neighboring Bolivia. Notable features include:

• Operated by Terminal Internacional del Sur S.A. (TISUR) since 1999
• 30-year concession has driven investment and cargo growth
• Serves major Bolivian cities like Santa Cruz, Cochabamba, and Oruro
• Key link for landlocked Bolivia’s maritime trade

FreightAmigo’s Digital Platform can be particularly valuable for freight forwarders and shippers managing cross-border trade through Matarani. Our solution offers seamless coordination between different parties involved in international shipments, helping to reduce delays and improve communication across borders.

4. Port of Talara

The Port of Talara is unique among Peru’s major ports due to its specialization in the oil industry. Key characteristics include:

• State-owned and operated by Petróleos del Perú S.A. (PETROPERU)
• Serves oil industry in Piura and Tumbes regions
• Processes and ships various petroleum products
• Entrance channel: 180m wide, 10-11m deep
• Can accommodate tankers up to 210m long with 10.36m draft
• Features submarine line for loading/unloading crude materials

For companies involved in oil and petrochemical shipping, FreightAmigo’s Digital Logistics Platform offers specialized tools to manage the unique requirements of these shipments. From handling hazardous materials documentation to coordinating specialized equipment, our solution can help streamline operations through Talara.

5. Port of Salaverry

The Port of Salaverry is an artificial harbor serving Trujillo and neighboring states. Notable features include:

• Artificial harbor with 700m long breakwater
• Exposed to some surge and swell
• Administered by Empresa Nacional de Puertos S.A. (ENAPU)
• Two solid piers for handling general and bulk cargo
• Mobile shore ship loader for copper concentrates
• Serves Trujillo, Ancash, Lambayeque, and Cajamarca regions

FreightAmigo’s Digital Platform can help shippers and freight forwarders navigate the unique challenges of Salaverry’s artificial harbor. Our solution provides up-to-date information on port conditions, helping users plan for potential surge and swell issues, while also offering tools to manage bulk and general cargo shipments efficiently.

Conclusion

Peru’s top 5 ports – Callao, Paita, Matarani, Talara, and Salaverry – form the backbone of the country’s maritime trade infrastructure. Each port has its own specialties and serves different regions and industries, from containerized exports to oil shipments and bulk cargo.

As these ports continue to develop and handle increasing cargo volumes, efficient logistics management becomes ever more critical. FreightAmigo’s Digital Platform offers a comprehensive solution for freight forwarders, shippers, and logistics professionals operating through Peru’s major ports. By leveraging our advanced technology, businesses can optimize their operations, reduce costs, and improve their overall logistics performance.

Whether you’re managing containerized exports through Paita, coordinating cross-border shipments via Matarani, or handling specialized oil cargo at Talara, FreightAmigo’s Digital Logistics Solution provides the tools and insights you need to succeed in today’s competitive global trade environment.

To learn more about how FreightAmigo can support your logistics operations through Peru’s major ports, contact our team of experts today. Together, we can navigate the complexities of international shipping and unlock new efficiencies in your supply chain.