How do I Import / Export Goods in Bulk?

Step 1:

Talk directly to the commercial team at Belfast Harbour. The team will be happy  to discuss your particular requirements, provide advice as on the availability of facilities, and inform or introduce you to the relevant service providers.

Step 2:

Select an agent from one of the many experienced shipping agents based at the harbour. the ships agent will look after all aspects of billing, cargo returns and will represent the interests of the ship and crew while in port.

Belfast Harbour does not engage directly in the handling of goods or chartering of ships. This is the responsibility of stevedores and agents.

See Harbour Business Directory

Step 3:

Select a stevedore from one of the 5 licensed general stevedores currently operating in the port. All goods handled at the Port must be conducted by a licensed stevedore; the stevedore will provide handling advice, equipment availability, rates etc for your cargo.

See Harbour Business Directory

How do I Import / Export Goods in Containers?

If you are importing or exporting full container loads (FCL) or less than full container loads (LCL), please liase with the shipper of the goods and identify which shipping line is being used to ship the goods, which container service is being used and which port are the goods coming / going to.

For the most part, the shipment of goods by container is expertly managed by a freight forwarder, many of whom are located in the port. For a list of freight forwarders, please visit the Harbour Business Directory

Once you have identified from the shipper, which carrier is being used your next step is to speak to one of the freight forwarding companies based in the harbour.

The freight forwarder will look after all statutory obligations in respect of customs clearance, provision of documentation and will liaise directly with the container terminal to release your container or goods once they are available.