UN/LOCODE: USPHF📍 United States
Port of Hampton-Williamsburg-Newport News Apt (UN/LOCODE USPHF)
❖ Coordinates: 37.1200°N, -76.4800°E
❖ Time Zone: America/New_York
❖ UN/LOCODE: USPHF
## About the Port
The Port of Portsmouth, identified by UN/LOCODE USPHF, is a strategically located maritime facility in Virginia, United States. Situated at coordinates 37.12°N, 76.48°W, the port lies along the Elizabeth River, a tributary of the James River and the Chesapeake Bay. This geographic positioning places it within the broader Hampton Roads harbor system, one of the busiest maritime corridors on the U.S. East Coast. The port serves as a critical node for commercial shipping, linking inland transportation networks to global trade routes. It operates under the Virginia Department of Transportation’s oversight and is part of the Portsmouth Public Works Department’s infrastructure management. The facility handles diverse cargo types, including bulk commodities, containers, and project cargo, contributing significantly to regional and national economic activity. Its proximity to major highways, rail lines, and the Norfolk International Terminals enhances its logistical efficiency, making it a key player in the Mid-Atlantic supply chain.
## History
The Port of Portsmouth’s origins trace back to the 18th century, when it emerged as a colonial trading hub due to its navigable waterways and access to the Chesapeake Bay. By the 19th century, the port had become a vital center for agricultural exports, particularly tobacco and grain, facilitated by the expansion of railroads and the construction of the Gosport Shipyard (later Norfolk Naval Shipyard). The 20th century marked significant growth, driven by industrialization and military investment during both World Wars. The presence of Newport News Shipbuilding, one of the largest shipbuilders in the U.S., further solidified the region’s maritime importance. The port underwent modernization efforts in the late 20th and early 21st centuries, aligning with the Hampton Roads ports’ collective push to accommodate larger vessels and containerized trade. Today, it remains a cornerstone of Virginia’s maritime economy, balancing commercial and defense-related activities.
## Infrastructure & Facilities
The port’s infrastructure is integrated into the Hampton Roads maritime complex, benefiting from shared resources and coordinated operations. Key facilities include deep-water berths capable of handling large commercial vessels and bulk carriers. The site features dedicated terminals for containerized cargo, auto shipments, and project cargo, supported by advanced crane systems and storage yards. Rail access via CSX and Norfolk Southern railroads enables seamless inland distribution, while proximity to Interstate 64 and 664 facilitates trucking logistics. The port also collaborates with the Norfolk Port Authority for intermodal services and customs processing. Environmental sustainability initiatives, including dredging projects to maintain channel depths and green energy adoption, underscore ongoing infrastructure investments. Notably, the port’s location along the Elizabeth River positions it within a network of federal shipping channels maintained by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, ensuring navigational safety and efficiency.
## Economic Importance
The Port of Portsmouth contributes substantially to Virginia’s economy, supporting thousands of jobs across logistics, manufacturing, and transportation sectors. As part of the Hampton Roads region, it handles over $100 billion in annual cargo value, with Portsmouth’s share including commodities like coal, soybeans, and forest products. The port’s connection to Newport News Shipbuilding bolsters the defense industry, facilitating the construction and repair of naval vessels. Additionally, its role in the automotive supply chain—through auto-processing terminals—makes it a critical link for vehicle exports. The facility’s economic impact extends beyond direct operations, stimulating growth in related industries such as warehousing, trucking, and maritime services. According to Virginia’s Department of Transportation, the port generates approximately $6 billion annually in economic activity, underscoring its status as a linchpin for regional prosperity. The port’s competitiveness is further enhanced by its access to the Atlantic, enabling direct access to international markets.
## Trade Routes & Major Cargo
Strategically positioned on the U.S. East Coast, the Port of Portsmouth connects to major global trade routes via the Chesapeake Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. Vessels transit through the bay’s deep-water channels to reach inland terminals, with direct services to Europe, Asia, and South America. Key imports include consumer goods, electronics, and raw materials, while exports encompass coal, agricultural products, and manufactured goods. The port is particularly active in the North Atlantic route, serving as a distribution hub for cargo destined for the northeastern United States. Its auto-processing facilities handle thousands of vehicles annually, with shipments destined for U.S. and international markets. Additionally, the port’s proximity to military installations supports defense-related cargo, including equipment and components for naval projects. The facility’s intermodal capabilities ensure efficient transfer of goods between ships, trains, and trucks, optimizing supply chain performance. For real-time cargo tracking and port operations, refer to the Portsmouth Port Authority↗ and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Hampton Roads reports↗.
Port Intelligence
UN/LOCODE
USPHF
Country
United States
Province / Region
Virginia
Latitude
37.120000
Longitude
-76.480000
Timezone
America/New_York
Nautical Map (OpenSeaMap)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the UN/LOCODE for Port of Hampton-Williamsburg-Newport News Apt?
The official UN/LOCODE for Port of Hampton-Williamsburg-Newport News Apt is USPHF.
Where is Port of Hampton-Williamsburg-Newport News Apt located?
The Port of Hampton-Williamsburg-Newport News Apt is located in United States, Virginia. Its coordinates are 37.1200°N, -76.4800°E.
What time zone is Port of Hampton-Williamsburg-Newport News Apt in?
Port of Hampton-Williamsburg-Newport News Apt operates in the America/New_York time zone.
🌊 Live Marine Conditions
Wave Height0.04 m
Wave Direction189°
Swell Height0.04 m
Data provided by Open-Meteo Marine API
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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.
📍 Nearby Ports
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