GlossaryEN1 min readUpdated: Jun 26, 2026
berth
When a vessel arrives at port, it is assigned a berth – a designated, numbered position alongside a quay or pier where loading, discharge, bunkering, or maintenance takes place.
Quick Answer
Last updated: Published:
Source: https://www.duden.de/rechtschreibung/Liegeplatz
Category
Logistics Concept
Reading time
1 min
Words
103
Mentioned in
–
Definition & Explanation
When a vessel arrives at port, it is assigned a berth – a designated, numbered position alongside a quay or pier where loading, discharge, bunkering, or maintenance takes place. Beyond the physical mooring space, a berth comes with allocated infrastructure: cranes, storage areas, mooring fittings, and utility connections. Port authorities allocate berths based on vessel dimensions, cargo type, and scheduled arrival windows. Charges accrue on an hourly or daily basis; exceeding the agreed time slot triggers demurrage costs borne by the shipowner or charterer. Not to be confused with a roadstead anchorage, where vessels wait offshore without being formally assigned a quay position.
Next steps
Matching tools and partners
Related Terms
You might also be interested in these terms
Related News
Logistics knowledge straight to your inbox
Free · No password · Never a paywall. Weekly top news and facts from logistics.