Projected Impacts on Infrastructure

by John Vickerman

To handle next-generation container ships, as well as overall increases in container traffic, U.S. ports will require significant-and costly-physical improvements. Depending on the port, required improvements could include: deeper draft navigation channels; larger turning basins; larger and faster wharf cranes; larger terminals with more land for container storage; upgraded intermodal rail connections (preferably on-dock); and upgraded highway access.

Navigation Channels
Panamax vessels typically draft 38 feet. Allowing 2 feet for vertical ship movement and 2 feet for underkeel clearance, these ships require a 42-foot channel. With Post-Panamax vessels, draft increases to around 42 feet (fully loaded) and a 46-foot channel are required. With mega container ships, typical draft is estimated at 46 feet (fully loaded), requiring a 50-foot channel.

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