Port Draft & Vessel Restriction Database
Indicative maximum permissible arrival/sailing draft, LOA, beam and DWT for major bulk terminals, plus a quick vessel suitability check. Always reconfirm with the local agent and current port circular before fixing.
Tidal sailing windows only; convoy departures on the high tide. Pilotage compulsory.
| Class | DWT | LOA | Beam | Draft |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Handysize | 10,000–39,999 | 130–180 m | 20–28 m | 8.5–10.5 m |
| Handymax | 40,000–49,999 | 175–190 m | 28–32 m | 10.5–11.5 m |
| Supramax | 50,000–59,999 | 190–200 m | 32.2 m | 12.0–12.8 m |
| Ultramax | 60,000–66,999 | 199–200 m | 32.3 m | 13.0–13.3 m |
| Panamax | 67,000–79,999 | 225 m max (old locks) | 32.31 m max | 12.04 m (old locks) |
| Kamsarmax | 80,000–84,999 | 229 m | 32.26 m | 14.4 m |
| Post-Panamax | 85,000–119,999 | 230–255 m | 36–43 m | 14.5–15.5 m |
| Capesize | 120,000–199,999 | 270–300 m | 43–47 m | 17.0–18.2 m |
| Newcastlemax | 200,000–219,999 | 300 m max | 50 m max | 18.5 m |
| VLOC | 220,000–400,000 | 330–362 m | 55–65 m | 18.5–23.0 m |
Overview & methodology
Checking a vessel against a port before fixing
Draft, LOA and beam restrictions determine whether a nominated vessel can load, sail or complete at a given terminal — and whether it needs to part-load, use a tidal window, or take an under-keel clearance margin into account. This database summarises indicative limits for the terminals that handle the major bulk trades: iron ore, coal, bauxite, grain and fertiliser.
The vessel classes table (Handysize through VLOC) gives standard DWT, LOA, beam and draft bands so you can cross-check a nomination even before full particulars are available. Always reconfirm the current limit with the local agent and the latest port circular — dredging programmes and berth-specific restrictions change often.
Frequently asked questions
How do I check if a vessel can call at a port?
Compare the vessel's LOA, beam and arrival draft against the berth's maximum permissible values, keep the required under-keel clearance, and add tidal window where the port is tide-restricted. Air draft under loading gear and cranes also has to be checked for gearless bulkers.