East London : Overview

The Port of East London is situated on the east coast of South Africa between Durban and Port Elizabeth, at the mouth of the Buffalo River. East London, South Africa’s only river port serves as the gateway to the entire Border-Kei areas, as well as other southern and central countries.

Longitude & Latitude

E Latitude 33 ° 1'S Longitude 27 ° 55'

Main features including water area

Offering a top quality personalised service, the Port has become known for its reliability and prides itself on efficient performance. Cost effectiveness, maintenance and growth have become significant economic priorities for the entire region and the Port of East London strives to meet these demands.

The port has excellent rail capabilities, serviced by a national rail network system providing access to all major cities within the borders of South Africa and neighbouring states.

There is a total of 11 commercial berths and one repair quay. Five of these berths are on the west bank, offering a total length of 1206 metres and six on the east bank offering a total of 1204 metres. The repair quay is also situated on the east bank and measures 110 m.

Special features

Main commodities handled
Imports	Exports
Vehicle components	Motor vehicles
Maize products	Processed Pineapple Products
Wheat
Machinery	Scrap steel
Chemicals	Confectionary
Sugar	Textiles
Timber	Maize
Textiles	Vehicle Components

Future developments

To cater for the growing automotive industry a project is underway to increase capacity at the Car Terminal. The 18m project will provide an additional 1000 parking bays adjacent to the existing terminal. Should market forces dictate the Port would commence with the implementation of phase two which would offer a further 60% to the Ports dedicated automative capacity.

Linked to this development is a project to deepen the draft at the Car Terminal from 9 to 10.5 meters.

Weather affecting port