Your Houston Port Container Operations Guide
The Port of Houston is America’s largest port by foreign tonnage and the busiest container port in the Gulf Coast. Understanding how to navigate its complex operations, fees, and timing is crucial for efficient container drayage. This comprehensive resource covers everything you need to know about Houston port operations in 2025.
Port of Houston Overview
Major Container Terminals
Bayport Container Terminal
- Location: 8050 Bayport Blvd, Pasadena, TX 77507
- Operator: Port Houston Authority
- Capacity: 1.2 million TEU annually
- Berths: 8 container berths (up to 1,200 feet)
- Rail Access: On-dock rail served by BNSF and UP
- Operating Hours: 24/7 operations
Barbours Cut Container Terminal
- Location: 1021 Barbours Cut Blvd, La Porte, TX 77571
- Operator: Port Houston Authority
- Capacity: 2.4 million TEU annually
- Berths: 8 container berths
- Rail Access: On-dock rail connections
- Operating Hours: 24/7 operations
2025 Terminal Statistics
| Terminal | Annual TEU | Average Dwell Time | Peak Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bayport | 1.1M TEU | 4.2 days | 7AM-3PM |
| Barbours Cut | 2.1M TEU | 3.8 days | 6AM-4PM |
Port Fee Structure 2025
Wharfage and Handling Fees
| Service | 20′ Container | 40′ Container | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Import Wharfage | $85 | $125 | Per container |
| Export Wharfage | $75 | $115 | Per container |
| Security Fee | $15 | $20 | All containers |
| Gate Processing | $12 | $15 | Per transaction |
Storage and Demurrage Fees
Import Container Storage (after free time):
| Days | 20′ Container | 40′ Container |
|---|---|---|
| Days 1-5 | FREE | FREE |
| Days 6-10 | $150/day | $200/day |
| Days 11-15 | $300/day | $400/day |
| Days 16+ | $500/day | $600/day |
Export Container Storage (after free time):
- Days 1-7: FREE
- Days 8-14: $175/day (20′), $225/day (40′)
- Days 15+: $350/day (20′), $450/day (40′)
Terminal Operating Schedules
Gate Hours and Operations
Truck Gates (Both Terminals):
- Monday-Friday: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Saturday: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Sunday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Holidays: Reduced hours (check schedule)
Peak Congestion Times:
- Heaviest Traffic: 7:00 AM – 11:00 AM
- Moderate Traffic: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM
- Lighter Traffic: 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM
- Lightest Traffic: 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Appointment Systems
Bayport Terminal:
- Appointment Required: Yes, for all truck transactions
- Booking Window: 5 days in advance
- System: eModal online platform
- Cancellation: Must cancel 4+ hours in advance
Barbours Cut Terminal:
- Appointment System: PTRA (Port Terminal Registration Application)
- Booking Window: 7 days in advance
- Walk-ins: Limited slots available
- Peak Season: Appointments highly recommended
Required Documentation
Import Container Pickup
Essential Documents:
- Delivery Order: From steamship line or freight forwarder
- Interchange Receipt: Equipment tracking document
- Bill of Lading: Original or express release
- Customs Release: CBP clearance notification
- TWIC Card: Valid driver identification credential
- Commercial Driver License: Current CDL with appropriate endorsements
Additional Requirements (if applicable):
- Agriculture Inspection: USDA clearance for certain goods
- FDA Hold Release: Food and drug clearance
- Overweight Permit: For containers exceeding weight limits
- Hazmat Documentation: For dangerous goods containers
Export Container Delivery
- Booking Confirmation: Steamship line reservation
- Commercial Invoice: Value declaration
- Packing List: Detailed cargo manifest
- Export Declaration: Electronic Export Information (EEI)
- Shipper’s Letter of Instruction: Handling instructions
Best Practices for Efficient Operations
Pre-Arrival Preparation
24-48 Hours Before:
- Verify all documentation is complete and accurate
- Check container availability and release status
- Schedule terminal appointments
- Confirm chassis availability and condition
- Review routing and delivery requirements
Day of Operation:
- Arrive 15-30 minutes before appointment time
- Have all documents organized and readily available
- Check for any last-minute holds or restrictions
- Confirm delivery destination and contact information
Avoiding Common Delays
Documentation Issues (35% of delays):
- Missing or incorrect delivery orders
- Expired TWIC cards
- Incomplete customs clearance
- Missing hazmat documentation
Equipment Problems (25% of delays):
- Chassis shortages during peak periods
- Equipment inspection failures
- Improper chassis for container type
- Damaged or non-functional gensets (reefers)
Terminal Congestion (40% of delays):
- Arriving during peak hours
- Missing appointment slots
- Vessel schedule disruptions
- Weather-related closures
Weather and Seasonal Considerations
Hurricane Season (June – November)
Port Operations During Storms:
- Condition ZULU: Port closed to all vessel traffic
- Condition YANKEE: Port closed to inbound traffic
- Condition X-RAY: Limited operations, small vessels only
- Condition WHISKEY: Port open with restrictions
Preparation Strategies:
- Monitor weather forecasts 5-7 days in advance
- Expedite critical shipments before storm arrival
- Coordinate with terminals on reopening schedules
- Plan for 2-5 day port closures during major storms
Peak Season Operations
High Volume Periods:
- Back-to-School: July-August
- Holiday Season: September-November
- Chinese New Year: January-February rush
- Spring Restocking: March-April
Peak Season Challenges:
- Increased appointment wait times
- Equipment shortages
- Extended gate processing times
- Higher storage and demurrage costs
Technology and Systems
Port Digital Platforms
Lynx Portal (csp.porthouston.com) – Houston Specific:
- Truck license plate registration for Houston terminals
- Container status and location tracking
- Gate transaction history
- ExpressPass enrollment for Houston operations
- Invoice and billing information
Terminal Management Systems:
- eModal: Bayport appointment system
- PTRA: Barbours Cut registration
- TOS Integration: Real-time inventory updates
- EDI Connectivity: Automated data exchange
ExpressPass Program
Benefits of Enrollment:
- Dedicated gate lanes for faster processing
- Reduced documentation verification time
- Priority appointment scheduling
- Enhanced security clearance
- Volume-based incentives
Enrollment Requirements:
- Valid TWIC credentials for all drivers
- Active UIIA participation
- Clean safety record
- Financial stability verification
- Minimum volume commitments
Security and Compliance
TWIC Requirements
Driver Compliance:
- 100% TWIC Required: All drivers entering port facilities
- Card Validation: Electronic verification at gates
- Escort Policy: Non-TWIC personnel require escorts
- Regular Updates: Canceled card lists updated daily
Customs and Border Protection
Container Examination Types:
- VACIS Scan: Non-intrusive imaging (15-30 minutes)
- Tailgate Exam: Partial container inspection (1-2 hours)
- Intensive Exam: Full container unloading (4-8 hours)
- Agriculture Inspection: USDA examination (1-3 hours)
Performance Optimization Tips
Cost Reduction Strategies
Minimize Storage Costs:
- Schedule pickups within free time periods
- Monitor container availability daily
- Coordinate multiple container moves
- Use off-peak appointment slots
Improve Efficiency:
- Pre-clear customs issues before arrival
- Maintain current TWIC credentials
- Use ExpressPass program benefits
- Schedule during optimal hours (3PM-6PM)
Relationship Management
- Terminal Operators: Build rapport with gate personnel
- Customs Brokers: Maintain good working relationships
- Steamship Lines: Understand release procedures
- Drayage Partners: Choose experienced providers
Why Choose Sunbelt Drayage for Houston Port Operations?
Houston Port Expertise
- 15+ Years Experience: Deep knowledge of Houston port operations
- Direct Terminal Relationships: Established connections with all terminals
- ExpressPass Certified: Priority processing at both terminals
- 100% TWIC Compliance: All drivers security-cleared
Operational Advantages
- 24/7 Dispatch: Round-the-clock operations support
- Real-time Tracking: GPS visibility throughout transport
- Proactive Communication: Updates on delays or issues
- Flexible Scheduling: Accommodate urgent requirements
Ready to optimize your Houston port drayage operations? Contact Sunbelt Drayage today to learn how our port expertise can streamline your container transportation!
Sunbelt Drayage – Your Houston Port Specialists
This guide is updated regularly to reflect current port conditions and fee schedules. Information current as of September 2025. Always verify current requirements with terminal operators.