UN/LOCODE: USDEC📍 United States
Port of Decatur (UN/LOCODE USDEC)
❖ Coordinates: 39.8403°N, -88.9548°E
❖ Time Zone: America/Chicago
❖ UN/LOCODE: USDEC
## About the Port
The Port of Decatur, located in Illinois, United States, is a significant inland port that plays a crucial role in the country's transportation network. With the UN/LOCODE USDEC, the port is situated at 39.8403147 Latitude and -88.9548001 Longitude, in the America/Chicago timezone. The port's strategic location allows it to serve as a vital link between the Midwest region and the rest of the world. As an important transportation hub, the Port of Decatur handles a diverse range of cargo, including agricultural products, coal, and manufactured goods.
### Geography and Climate
The Port of Decatur is situated on the banks of Lake Decatur, a man-made lake that was created in 1923 to provide a source of water for the city's industries. The lake is approximately 3,000 acres in size and has a maximum depth of around 20 feet. The port's geographic location and climate make it an ideal location for year-round operations, with the average temperature ranging from 24°F (-4°C) in January (the coldest month) to 87°F (31°C) in July (the warmest month).
## History
The Port of Decatur has a long and rich history dating back to the late 19th century, when the city of Decatur was a major railroad hub. The port's development was closely tied to the growth of the railroad industry, with the arrival of the Illinois Central Railroad in 1855 marking the beginning of Decatur's transformation into a major transportation center. Over the years, the port has undergone significant expansion and modernization, with the construction of new facilities and infrastructure aimed at increasing its cargo-handling capacity and improving efficiency. For more information on the history of the Port of Decatur, visit the Decatur Maritime History website↗.
### Notable Events
One notable event in the port's history was the completion of the Lake Decatur dam in 1923, which created the lake and provided a new source of water for the city's industries. Another significant event was the construction of the Illinois Waterway, which connects the Great Lakes to the Gulf of Mexico and provides a vital transportation route for cargo. The port has also played an important role in the region's economic development, with the creation of jobs and stimulation of economic growth.
## Infrastructure & Facilities
The Port of Decatur boasts a range of modern infrastructure and facilities designed to handle a wide variety of cargo. The port's facilities include a 25-acre cargo terminal, a 12-acre container yard, and a 5-acre bulk cargo handling area. The port is also equipped with a range of cargo-handling equipment, including cranes, forklifts, and conveyors. In addition, the port has a 1,200-foot-long docking area, with a draft of up to 9 feet, allowing it to accommodate a wide range of vessels.
### Berths and Facilities
The port has a total of five berths, each with its own specific use and capacity. Berth 1 is dedicated to cargo handling, while Berth 2 is used for container operations. Berth 3 is a general cargo berth, while Berths 4 and 5 are used for bulk cargo handling. The port's facilities also include a warehouse with a total storage area of over 100,000 square feet, as well as a range of support services, including customs brokerage, freight forwarding, and cargo insurance.
## Economic Importance
The Port of Decatur plays a significant role in the regional economy, generating significant revenue and creating jobs. According to a study by the American Association of Port Authorities↗, the port supports over 1,000 jobs and generates over $100 million in economic activity each year. The port's economic importance extends beyond the local area, with its cargo-handling operations contributing to the growth and development of the regional economy.
### Benefits to the Local Community
The Port of Decatur provides a range of benefits to the local community, including job creation, economic growth, and improved quality of life. The port's operations also contribute to the local tax base, providing revenue for public services and infrastructure. In addition, the port's presence helps to attract new businesses and industries to the area, further stimulating economic growth and development.
## Trade Routes & Major Cargo
The Port of Decatur is an important hub for trade in the Midwest region, with cargo shipments arriving from and departing to destinations around the world. The port's trade routes include the Illinois Waterway, the Great Lakes, and the Gulf of Mexico, providing access to a wide range of markets and industries. Major cargo handled at the port includes agricultural products, such as soybeans and corn, as well as coal, steel, and manufactured goods. The port's strategic location and modern facilities make it an attractive option for shippers looking to move cargo efficiently and reliably.
Port Intelligence
UN/LOCODE
USDEC
Country
United States
Province / Region
Illinois
Latitude
39.840315
Longitude
-88.954800
Timezone
America/Chicago
Nautical Map (OpenSeaMap)
Loading Map...
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the UN/LOCODE for Port of Decatur?
The official UN/LOCODE for Port of Decatur is USDEC.
Where is Port of Decatur located?
The Port of Decatur is located in United States, Illinois. Its coordinates are 39.8403°N, -88.9548°E.
What time zone is Port of Decatur in?
Port of Decatur operates in the America/Chicago time zone.
🌊 Live Marine Conditions
Wave Height m
Wave Direction°
Swell Height m
Data provided by Open-Meteo Marine API
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 Decatur.
Peoria
United States • 109 km awaySaint Louis
United States • 172 km awayIndianapolis
United States • 240 km awayChicago
United States • 253 km away