Ports in Eastern North America help to handle more than one trillion dollars in cargo that flows into and out of ports on the continent. Container volume continues to grow across North America, however the capacity of ports has not kept pace in all regions. Some of the largest and most modernized container terminals in North America are located in ports in Eastern US cities. The list of major Eastern ports includes those in New York and New Jersey, Miami and Virginia.

Access growing consumer markets across the Atlantic Ocean by expanding your operations into an Eastern seaboard port. Because of the increasing trade volume, any Eastern port expansion requires proper planning and management to ensure that operations run smoothly.

The following resources will help you to find the services you need to expand you operations into an Eastern port:

1. Decide which Eastern port in which you wish to set up operations.

2. Develop an operational plan for your Eastern seaboard port expansion with the help of maritime consultants.

3. Work with terminal operators and cargo handlers with experience in Eastern ports.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Locate an Eastern seaboard port in which to expand your business

Ports in North America provide access to markets around the world. No matter what your company's specialty is, there is an eastern port that can provide access to consumers across the Atlantic Ocean.

I recommend: World Port Source provides a clickable map of ports in Eastern North America. Select from ports in the United States and Canada, and click on a port of interest for more information. The largest of Eastern US ports is in New York City. The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey handles every possible type of cargo.

Work with consultants to create a business plan for your expansion into major Eastern ports

When expanding your operations to Eastern ports, give yourself an advantage by starting with a sound plan. Several companies offer operational planning and management services.

I recommend: The Seaport Group provides port planning, port feasibility studies, trade and traffic forecasts, and conceptual design of port projects. The company has experience in ports in Eastern North America. Lauga & Associates Consulting are port planning and maritime consultants with experience around the world. The company offers operational analysis, project management, economic and financial analysis, and management consulting.

Partner with cargo handlers and terminal operators who have experience in Eastern ports

Working with professionals who know the ins and outs of business culture in eastern seaboard ports will give your expansion a leg up on the competition. Connect with companies that have experience in the region to help get your endeavor on the right track from the beginning.

I recommend: Ports America is the largest American terminal operator. The company operates 50 ports and 97 terminals in North and South America, including major eastern seaboard ports. Logistec provides cargo handling services in 21 ports in Eastern North America. The company offers loading and unloading services, warehousing, and storage.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Container vessels are potential carriers of chemicals and weapons of mass destruction. Protect your Eastern port investment by utilizing chemical and explosive sensing technology.