UN/LOCODE: USCHI📍 United States
Port of Chicago (UN/LOCODE USCHI)
❖ Coordinates: 41.8781°N, -87.6298°E
❖ Time Zone: America/Chicago
❖ UN/LOCODE: USCHI
## About the Port
The Port of Chicago, located in the state of Illinois, United States, is a major hub for maritime trade and commerce. With its unique position on the southwestern shore of Lake Michigan, the port plays a critical role in connecting the Midwest region to the rest of the world. The port's UN/LOCODE, USCHI, is a widely recognized identifier used in international trade and logistics. The port's timezone, America/Chicago, and coordinates, 41.8781136 latitude and -87.6297982 longitude, are essential for navigation and operational purposes.
The Port of Chicago is managed by the Illinois International Port District, a governmental agency responsible for promoting and developing the port's facilities and services. According to the American Association of Port Authorities↗, the Port of Chicago is one of the largest ports in the United States, handling a significant volume of cargo and providing employment opportunities for thousands of people.
## History
The history of the Port of Chicago dates back to the early 19th century, when the city's strategic location on Lake Michigan made it an attractive center for trade and commerce. The construction of the Illinois and Michigan Canal in 1848 further enhanced the port's importance, connecting the Great Lakes to the Mississippi River and facilitating the transportation of goods between the East Coast and the Midwest.
Over the years, the Port of Chicago has undergone significant transformations, including the development of new facilities, the expansion of existing infrastructure, and the introduction of modern technologies. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the port experienced rapid growth, driven by the increase in international trade and the expansion of the rail network. Today, the Port of Chicago is a major player in the global maritime industry, with a rich history and a strong commitment to innovation and sustainability.
## Infrastructure & Facilities
The Port of Chicago boasts a wide range of infrastructure and facilities, including terminals, warehouses, and transportation systems. The port's two main terminals, the Lake Calumet Terminal and the Iroquois Terminal, offer a total of 1,600 acres of land and 1,300 feet of dock space. The terminals are equipped with modern cargo handling equipment, including cranes, forklifts, and conveyors, and are capable of handling a variety of cargo types, including bulk commodities, breakbulk, and containers.
In addition to its terminal facilities, the Port of Chicago is also home to a number of warehouses and distribution centers, providing storage and logistics services for cargo owners and shippers. The port is connected to the national rail network, with several major railroads, including the BNSF Railway and the Union Pacific Railroad, providing direct access to the port. The port is also accessible by truck, with several major highways, including Interstate 90 and Interstate 94, passing through the region.
## Economic Importance
The Port of Chicago plays a vital role in the regional and national economy, generating significant revenue and creating thousands of jobs. According to a study by the Martime Administration↗, the port supports over 40,000 jobs and generates over $1 billion in economic activity each year. The port is also a major contributor to the state's tax base, with cargo owners and shippers paying millions of dollars in taxes and fees each year.
The port's economic importance extends beyond the maritime industry, with many local businesses and industries relying on the port for the transportation of goods and raw materials. The port is also a critical component of the national supply chain, with cargo moving through the port destined for destinations across the United States and around the world.
## Trade Routes & Major Cargo
The Port of Chicago is connected to a number of major trade routes, including the St. Lawrence Seaway, which provides access to the Atlantic Ocean and international markets. The port is also a key component of the Midwest rail network, with cargo moving through the port by rail to destinations across the United States.
The port handles a diverse range of cargo, including bulk commodities such as coal, iron ore, and grain, as well as breakbulk and containerized cargo. Some of the major cargo types handled at the port include:
* Agricultural products, such as soybeans and corn
* Steel and steel products, including coils and plate
* Coal and other energy products
* Construction materials, including cement and stone
* Containerized cargo, including electronics, machinery, and consumer goods
In terms of trade routes, the Port of Chicago is an important link between the Midwest region and international markets, with cargo moving through the port to destinations in Europe, Asia, and South America. The port is also a key component of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) and the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), with cargo moving through the port to destinations in Mexico and Canada.
Port Intelligence
UN/LOCODE
USCHI
Country
United States
Province / Region
Illinois
Latitude
41.878114
Longitude
-87.629798
Timezone
America/Chicago
Nautical Map (OpenSeaMap)
Loading Map...
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the UN/LOCODE for Port of Chicago?
The official UN/LOCODE for Port of Chicago is USCHI.
Where is Port of Chicago located?
The Port of Chicago is located in United States, Illinois. Its coordinates are 41.8781°N, -87.6298°E.
What time zone is Port of Chicago in?
Port of Chicago operates in the America/Chicago 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 Chicago.
Waukegan
United States • 55 km awayMilwaukee
United States • 131 km awayPeoria
United States • 210 km awayDecatur
United States • 253 km away