UN/LOCODE: VEETV📍 Venezuela
Port of El Tablazo/Maracaibo L (UN/LOCODE VEETV)
❖ Coordinates: 10.5970°N, -71.6419°E
❖ Time Zone: America/Caracas
❖ UN/LOCODE: VEETV
## About the Port
El Tablazo/Maracaibo L (UN/LOCODE: VEETV) represents one of Venezuela's most strategically significant inland port complexes, situated within the oil-rich province of Zulia at coordinates 10.596956° Latitude, -71.641934° Longitude. This dual-designated port facility operates under Venezuela's America/Caracas timezone (UTC-4) and serves as a critical multimodal transportation hub connecting Lake Maracaibo's freshwater basin with extensive petroleum infrastructure networks.
The port's operational classification encompasses both commercial cargo handling and specialized petroleum product transshipment capabilities, positioning it as an essential node within Latin America's energy logistics framework. VEETV's strategic importance derives from its proximity to Venezuela's largest oil fields and refineries, particularly those concentrated in the western Zulia region.
## History
Established during Venezuela's mid-20th century industrialization phase, El Tablazo/Maracaibo L emerged as a response to the nation's burgeoning petroleum export requirements. The facility's development coincided with the expansion of Lake Maracaibo's commercial navigation channels and the construction of integrated petrochemical complexes along its northern shoreline.
Historical records indicate that the port achieved significant operational capacity by the 1970s, facilitating substantial crude oil exports through coordinated riverine and coastal shipping operations. The facility underwent major modernization programs in the 1980s and 1990s, incorporating advanced cargo handling equipment and specialized infrastructure for bulk liquid commodities transport.
Throughout the 21st century, VEETV has maintained its position as Venezuela's premier inland petroleum export gateway, despite facing periodic operational challenges related to international sanctions and domestic economic conditions. The port's enduring significance reflects its unique geographic advantages within the Lake Maracaibo basin system.
## Infrastructure & Facilities
The El Tablazo/Maracaibo L complex features comprehensive infrastructure designed specifically for heavy bulk cargo operations. The facility includes dedicated petroleum product terminals with specialized storage tanks, loading arms, and pipeline connections to upstream processing facilities. Deep-water berths accommodate Panamax-class vessels capable of handling large-volume commodity shipments.
Key infrastructure components encompass:
- Multiple cargo berths with varying draft capabilities
- Integrated pipeline networks connecting to refinery complexes
- Specialized liquid cargo handling equipment
- Administrative and worker accommodation facilities
- Security and customs processing areas
The port's inland positioning requires coordinated barge-to-ship transfer operations, utilizing a fleet of specialized pontoons and towing vessels. Modern navigation aids and communication systems support safe operations within the constrained lake environment, while weather monitoring facilities account for the region's tropical maritime climate conditions.
## Economic Importance
VEETV functions as a cornerstone of Venezuela's petroleum export economy, directly facilitating crude oil and refined product shipments to international markets. The facility's throughput volumes significantly impact national export revenues, with regular cargoes destined for North American, European, and Caribbean destinations.
The port's economic influence extends beyond direct cargo operations to support ancillary services including marine transportation, equipment maintenance, and local supply chain activities. Employment generation occurs both directly through port operations and indirectly through supporting industries in the Maracaibo metropolitan area.
International buyers and trading houses consider VEETV's operational reliability critical for securing adequate supply volumes from Venezuelan crude sources. The facility's capacity to handle diverse petroleum grades, from light crude to heavy fuel oil products, enhances its commercial attractiveness within competitive global markets.
## Trade Routes & Major Cargo
Primary trade routes originating from El Tablazo/Maracaibo L extend throughout the Americas and Europe. Regular liner services connect the port to major North American refinery hubs including Houston, New Orleans, and New York, while scheduled bulk carrier movements serve European destinations such as Rotterdam and Antwerp.
Major cargo categories include:
- Crude oil exports (primarily extra-heavy and heavy grades)
- Refined petroleum products (gasoline, diesel, fuel oil)
- Petrochemical feedstocks and intermediate materials
- Bulk liquid chemicals and specialty cargoes
The port's connectivity leverages Lake Maracaibo's inland waterway system, allowing cost-effective transport from upstream production facilities to export terminals. Seasonal variations in lake levels influence operational windows, requiring strategic planning for maximum efficiency during optimal navigation periods.
Coastal shipping routes supplement international deep-sea movements, establishing supply chains between VEETV and smaller Caribbean ports serving domestic consumption markets. This integrated approach maximizes cargo utilization while maintaining flexibility for varying market demands and vessel scheduling requirements.
Port Intelligence
UN/LOCODE
VEETV
Country
Venezuela
Province / Region
Zulia
Latitude
10.596956
Longitude
-71.641934
Timezone
America/Caracas
Nautical Map (OpenSeaMap)
Loading Map...
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the UN/LOCODE for Port of El Tablazo/Maracaibo L?
The official UN/LOCODE for Port of El Tablazo/Maracaibo L is VEETV.
Where is Port of El Tablazo/Maracaibo L located?
The Port of El Tablazo/Maracaibo L is located in Venezuela, Zulia. Its coordinates are 10.5970°N, -71.6419°E.
What time zone is Port of El Tablazo/Maracaibo L in?
Port of El Tablazo/Maracaibo L operates in the America/Caracas time zone.
🌊 Live Marine Conditions
Wave Height0.18 m
Wave Direction44°
Swell Height0.14 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 El Tablazo/Maracaibo L.
Maracaibo
Venezuela • 10 km awayLa Salina/Maracaibo L
Venezuela • 14 km awayPunta Cardon
Venezuela • 194 km awayAmuay
Venezuela • 201 km away