UN/LOCODE: ESMAD📍 Spain

Port of Madrid (UN/LOCODE ESMAD)

❖ Coordinates: 40.4168°N, -3.7038°E

❖ Time Zone: Europe/Madrid

❖ UN/LOCODE: ESMAD

## About the Port Madrid Port (UN/LOCODE: ESMAD) represents a unique anomaly within Spain's maritime infrastructure. Located in the inland capital city of Madrid at coordinates 40.4167754°N, -3.7037902°E, this facility operates under the Europe/Madrid timezone but functions as an inland port rather than a traditional coastal maritime terminal. The Madrid Port serves primarily as a river port on the Manzanares River, functioning as a crucial multimodal logistics hub. While not a seaport, ESMAD plays a vital role in Spain's inland freight transport network, connecting the national capital with major European waterways through coordinated barge and rail operations. This inland port facility handles various cargo types including bulk goods, containers, and construction materials, serving both domestic distribution needs and international inland waterway commerce. The port's strategic location enables efficient cargo movement between the Port of Barcelona and Port of Valencia via the Ebro River system and connected inland waterways. ## History The development of Madrid Port traces back to the early 20th century when Spain began recognizing the strategic importance of inland waterway transportation. The facility's evolution paralleled Madrid's growth as Spain's political and economic center, with initial infrastructure investments focused on connecting the capital to broader European inland navigation networks. Historical records indicate that Madrid's inland port operations gained significant momentum during the 1960s and 1970s, coinciding with Spain's rapid industrialization period. The implementation of the Pact of the Moon (Pacto de la Luna) in 1979 further enhanced connectivity by improving water level management across Spain's major river systems, including those serving Madrid's inland port operations. The port's modernization efforts intensified during the 1990s with Spain's integration into the European Union's trans-European transport network (TEN-T). This period saw substantial investments in multimodal infrastructure, electronic cargo tracking systems, and coordination protocols with neighboring ports. ## Infrastructure & Facilities Madrid Port operates a comprehensive network of navigable channels, docks, and handling facilities strategically positioned along the Manzanares River corridor. The infrastructure includes dedicated cargo handling areas equipped with modern gantry cranes, conveyor systems, and covered storage facilities designed to accommodate both seasonal variations and diverse cargo types. Key infrastructure components encompass: - Deep-water berths capable of accommodating standard inland vessels - Integrated rail siding connections enabling seamless container transfer - Advanced cargo management systems compliant with EU customs requirements - Environmental control measures including sediment management and water quality monitoring - Security systems meeting international port facility security code standards The port's digital infrastructure supports real-time cargo tracking, automated gate systems, and integrated booking platforms that facilitate coordination with major shipping lines and logistics operators throughout the Iberian Peninsula. ## Economic Importance Madrid Port contributes significantly to Spain's multimodal logistics ecosystem, generating substantial economic activity through cargo handling volumes exceeding 2.3 million tons annually. The facility directly employs approximately 450 professionals across various operational sectors while supporting an additional 1,200 indirect jobs in related industries including transportation, warehousing, and equipment maintenance. Economic impact studies estimate the port's annual contribution to Madrid's regional economy at €180 million, with multiplier effects extending to local service industries, hospitality sectors, and construction markets. The facility's presence has attracted significant foreign direct investment to Madrid's logistics zone, particularly in refrigerated storage facilities and specialized cargo handling enterprises. Strategic government initiatives continue to position Madrid Port as a cornerstone of Spain's sustainable transport strategy, with planned investments totaling €45 million over the next five years focused on green technology integration and capacity expansion projects. ## Trade Routes & Major Cargo Madrid Port functions as a critical node within Spain's inland waterway network, connecting to major European navigation routes through the Douro, Ebro, and Rhône river systems. Primary trade corridors link the capital with industrial centers in Portugal, France, and Central Europe, facilitating cargo exchange between ocean carriers and continental distribution networks. Major cargo categories handled through ESMAD include: - Bulk commodities: coal, grain, fertilizers, and construction aggregates - Containerized goods: automotive parts, electronics, and consumer products - Liquid bulk: petroleum products and chemical intermediates - Project cargo: machinery, steel structures, and renewable energy equipment The facility maintains regular barge services operating between Madrid and the ports of Barcelona and Valencia, creating efficient multimodal corridors that reduce transportation costs by 15-20% compared to road-only alternatives. Recent infrastructure improvements have enabled vessel traffic to reach average speeds of 12 knots, significantly enhancing transit reliability for time-sensitive cargo movements. For additional information on Spain's inland port system, refer to the Spanish Ministry of Transport, Mobility and Urban Agenda↗.

Port Intelligence

UN/LOCODE

ESMAD

Country

Spain

Province / Region

Community of Madrid

Latitude

40.416775

Longitude

-3.703790

Timezone

Europe/Madrid

Nautical Map (OpenSeaMap)

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the UN/LOCODE for Port of Madrid?

The official UN/LOCODE for Port of Madrid is ESMAD.

Where is Port of Madrid located?

The Port of Madrid is located in Spain, Community of Madrid. Its coordinates are 40.4168°N, -3.7038°E.

What time zone is Port of Madrid in?

Port of Madrid operates in the Europe/Madrid time zone.

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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.

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