A port/terminal development project can take place in several contexts related to the level of completion of the site:
- Undeveloped site. The port authority or a responsible public agency can provide a suitable undeveloped site with existing or available nautical access. The site is expected to be zoned for port development and clearly demarcated. All the infrastructure and superstructure, including the terminal, road and rail connectors, and utilities, need to be developed, which requires substantial capital investment.
- Greenfield site. This site differs from an undeveloped site only in the availability of infrastructure, such as roads, rail connectors, and utilities, reaching the site boundary. The terminal infrastructure and superstructure require development. Often, undeveloped and greenfield sites are considered to be the same.
- Improved site. The foundations of a port terminal are present or to be provided. These mainly involve a quay line, paved yard, and intra-terminal roads without superstructures such as buildings, warehouses, or handling equipment. This can involve converting an existing facility to another port for use.
- Completed site. A site where all the infrastructure and some of the superstructure are provided. These include gates, offices, warehouses, and sheds. What is usually missing is the terminal handling equipment, such as quay cranes and yard handling equipment.
- Fully developed site. This is a complete terminal site with infrastructure and superstructure ready to be used. It includes quay cranes, but the operator supplies yard handling equipment, such as reach stackers and RTGs.
Capital costs tend to decline proportionally with the terminal site development level and the risk assumed by the private sector, particularly if a concession is involved.