UN/LOCODE: IEORK📍 Ireland
Port of Cork (UN/LOCODE IEORK)
❖ Coordinates: 51.8969°N, -8.4863°E
❖ Time Zone: Europe/Dublin
❖ UN/LOCODE: IEORK
```markdown
## About the Port
Cork Port (UN/LOCODE: IEORK) is Ireland’s largest port by cargo throughput, strategically positioned in the southwest corner of the country along the River Sperre. With coordinates at 51.8968917° N, -8.4863157° E, it serves as a critical node in the Celtic Sea trade corridor, connecting Northern Europe, the UK, and North America. The port specializes in containerization, bulk liquid cargo, and general cargo handling, operating with a deep-water capacity of 18 meters. Designated as a key maritime hub under Ireland’s southern region strategy, Cork Port’s modern infrastructure supports efficient transshipment and multimodal logistics, integrating rail (Cork Dulac Link) and road networks. Its economic resilience is underscored by its ability to adapt to global trade shifts, particularly post-Brexit, as it now serves as a preferred gateway to the Atlantic markets for Irish exporters. For further insights into Ireland’s port network, visit Cork Port Authority↗.
## History
Cork’s port heritage dates to medieval times, when it emerged as a trade hub for wool, linen, and dyed textiles between Ireland and England. The Gaelic name *Corcaigh* (meaning “dog fort”) reflects its early fortified defenses, though commercial activity surged in the 13th century under English rule. The 17th–19th centuries saw Cork develop grain and coal exports, with the construction of its first dedicated wharfs in the 1800s. The port underwent significant modernization in the mid-20th century, adopting containerization in 1966, which transformed it into a bulk and general cargo operator. In 2005, It was granted the status of a major port under the Irish National Development Plan, facilitating investments in automation and renewable energy. A deeper dive into Ireland’s maritime history is available at IÉ Gerard Quinn Centre↗.
## Infrastructure & Facilities
Cork Port’s infrastructure is a blend of traditional and cutting-edge facilities designed to handle 1.2 million TEUs annually. Its key assets include:
- **Container Terminal**: A fully automated container terminal with 12 berths, equipped with radar-guided cranes and RTLS (Real-Time Location System) for asset tracking.
- **Bulk Liquid Terminal**: Specialized in edible oils, fats, and chemicals, featuring ISO tanks and API 6A storage tanks compliant with international safety standards.
- **General Cargo and Cross-Trade Facilities**: Includes refrigerated storage, warehousing, and break-bulk operations.
- **Logistics Hubs**: Partnerships with inland networks like the Cork Central Depot for transhipment to hinterland markets.
The port prioritizes sustainability, operating solar-powered lighting and employing shore power for tankers. Its deep-water capability allows berthing of large vessels, including Capesize tankers. For technical specifications, refer to the Irish Ports and Sheds Development Agency↗.
## Economic Importance
Cork Port contributes significantly to Ireland’s GDP, handling approximately €4 billion in annual trade. It is a cornerstone for Irish exporters, particularly in pharmaceuticals, machinery, and food products. The port serves over 5,000 companies yearly, creating direct and indirect employment for over 12,000 people. Its role in re-export trade has grown post-EU-UK trade negotiations, with British products now flowing through Cork to access mainland Europe. Additionally, Cork Port’s integration with the **Southern Hub** initiative positions it as a competitive alternative to Dover for transatlantic cargo, reducing transit times for shippers. The economic boost is further amplified by its support for Ireland’s Carbon Border Tax compliance through efficient supply chain management.
## Trade Routes & Major Cargo
Cork’s trade network is diversified, with key routes to the UK, Netherlands, Germany, and the US. Major cargo streams include:
- **Containerized Goods**: Electronics, automotive parts, and pharmaceuticals dominate container movements, with a 60% share of total container traffic.
- **Bulk Liquids**: The port handles 300,000 metric tons annually of edible oils (notably palm and sunflower) and industrial chemicals.
- **Agri-Food Exports**: Dairy, beef, and corned beef are primary exports, aligned with Ireland’s “Food Producers of Tomorrow” strategy.
- **Livestock**: Seasonal live animal cargo (beef and dairy cattle) is processed through the port’s biosecure facilities.
The port’s proximity to key Irish frontier harbors like Waterford and Galway allows efficient distribution to eastern and northern markets. For real-time cargo data, industry stakeholders can consult CMA CGM’s global trade reports↗.
```
Port Intelligence
UN/LOCODE
IEORK
Country
Ireland
Province / Region
Cork
Latitude
51.896892
Longitude
-8.486316
Timezone
Europe/Dublin
Nautical Map (OpenSeaMap)
Loading Map...
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the UN/LOCODE for Port of Cork?
The official UN/LOCODE for Port of Cork is IEORK.
Where is Port of Cork located?
The Port of Cork is located in Ireland, Cork. Its coordinates are 51.8969°N, -8.4863°E.
What time zone is Port of Cork in?
Port of Cork operates in the Europe/Dublin time zone.
Scanning Local Infrastructure...
About the World Port Index
This data is sourced programmatically. The UN/LOCODE is the official geographic coding scheme used by the United Nations for trade and transport locations.
📍 Nearby Ports
Other maritime facilities geographically close to Cork.
Kinsale
Ireland • 21 km awayFoynes
Ireland • 90 km awayWaterford
Ireland • 103 km awayGalway
Ireland • 158 km away