Source: Adapted from Ducruet, C., Notteboom, T. and Slack, B. (2023) Port migration patterns in the global port system since the 1950s. In Port Systems in Global Competition (pp. 122-146). Routledge.
The dynamics of port terminal migration and relocation are spatial processes closely related to site characteristics, with costs and benefits being considered.
- Activity. Two interrelated activities can take place. The first involves migration, which is using a new terminal site while the existing site(s) remain active. This can imply that a share of the total cargo-handling activities is moved from an initial site to a new site. The second involves relocation, which entails simultaneously opening a new terminal facility while a corresponding facility is closed at the initial site. The entirety of the cargo activities is transferred to the new site.
- Continuity. Terminal migration or relocation can be continuous when it involves a new site that is reasonably adjacent to the existing port facilities. It can be discontinuous when the new site is in a different location, which mainly occurs when there is no ready availability of sites in proximity to the initial site, as well as a way to escape important constraints of the initial site, particularly its nautical profile.
- Nautical direction. Related to the site options available for migration or relocation. A port that has its facilities located along a river, such as in a delta, will see a downstream expansion of its facilities, which is usually associated with an improvement in the nautical profile. A port along the coast will see lateral expansion toward sites that usually have a similar or better nautical profile. An outward or offshore move implies the creation of new port terminals in artificial sites created through land reclamation or by constructing offshore berths and access piers.
Examples of the continuity aspect include:
- Deurgankdock Dock, Antwerp (2005).
- Maasvlakte II, Rotterdam (2013).
- Terminal 3, Baltic Hub, Gdansk (2025).
- MSC Terminal, Valencia (2029).
Discontinuous (same port authority):
- Nansha, Guangzhou, China (migration).
- Yangshan, Shanghai, China (migration).
- Tuas Port, Singapore (the final aim is complete relocation as the existing container terminals of Pasir Panjang, Brani, Keppel, and Tanjung Pagar are to be closed by 2040).
- Busan New Port, Busan (final aim is relocation as terminals in Busan North Port will be closed)
Discontinuous (other port authority):
- JadeWeserport, Wilhelmshaven, Germany.
- London Gateway, UK.