The shipping platform

Location: The Port of Otaru is situated in a naturally formed harbor along the central western coast of Hokkaido, the northernmost island of Japan. General overview: The Port of Otaru is strategically located on the central western coast of Hokkaido, Japan's North island. It boasts of a natural harbor that is protected from the elements by its surrounding land on three sides, and by breakwaters that measure 3,556 meters in length. This makes the port an ideal location for shipping activities, and provides a safe anchorage for ships in depths of up to 15 meters. The Port of Otaru comprises of 6 wharves and 35 berths, providing ample space for various vessels to dock. The recent dredging of the port to 13.1 meters from 12 meters has allowed for the accommodation of Panamax size grain vessels. This has increased the port's capacity to handle large cargo ships, making it more accessible for international trade. The port provides regular ferry services to Niigata, Tsuruga, and Maizuru, making it easier for passengers to travel to these destinations. In addition to being a plant and animal quarantine facility, the Port of Otaru is also able to import agricultural and farm stock products, making it a hub for these industries in the region. The port serves as an important gateway for various imports such as corn, soybean, wheat, logs, marine products, timber, and farm stock products. It also supports the export of packing materials, cars, and heavy machinery, making it a vital economic contributor to the region. Handling Equipment: - Gantry Cranes - Container Cranes Storage: - Transit Sheds - Warehouses - Silos Traffic figures: Approx. 25,330,000t of cargo handled annually. Load line zone: Summer zone for ships over 100m in length (Summer Mar 1 to Nov 30) Winter Seasonal Area for ships of 100m or less in length (Winter Dec 1 to Feb 28/29)