Quick Answer
UNLOCODEZA RCB
CountrySouth Africa
Water BodyIndian Ocean
SizeMedium
TypeCoastal (Breakwater)
Channel Depth18.9 m
Lat-28.8100
Lng32.0983
Classificationbulk_20260918
0Views
Last updated:
About This Seaport
Richards Bay (ZA RCB), South Africa's leading coal-export port in KwaZulu-Natal, is home to the Richards Bay Coal Terminal (RBCT) — Africa's largest coal-loading facility, designed for 91 million tonnes a year — which shipped 57.66 million tonnes in 2025, up more than 10 percent year-on-year. Asia absorbed roughly 80 percent of 2025 exports, with India leading at 25.75 million tonnes (45 percent), while Morocco was the continent's largest buyer. By end-June 2026 RBCT had already exported just over 30 million tonnes; at the prevailing rail rate, the industry forecasts around 62 million tonnes for the full year, with Transnet Freight Rail targeting 70 million tonnes by 2028/29. A VAT regulation amendment of 25 August 2026 introduced zero-rating for export goods delivered to licensed terminal operators. Alongside coal, the Transnet-run multipurpose terminal moves other dry bulks — magnetite, heavy-mineral sands, aluminium and woodchips — plus some breakbulk; container traffic is effectively absent. Channels and berths of 18–19 metres accommodate large Capesize bulkers. A dedicated heavy-haul rail line links the quays to the Mpumalanga coalfields; the rolling-stock programme reached completion in 2026 with all 102 new Alstom locomotives now in service on the coal line, stabilising the rail-cycle rate, while CEO Alan Waller reported a 56 percent improvement in network security at the Southern African Coal Conference 2026. For containerised cargo, Durban, about 160 km south, is the nearest option.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the UN/LOCODE of Richards Bay?▼
The UN/LOCODE of Richards Bay is ZA RCB. This international code identifies ports and logistics locations worldwide.
Where is the port of Richards Bay located?▼
The port of Richards Bay is located in South Africa (Indian Ocean).
What is the size of the port Richards Bay?▼
Richards Bay is a Medium harbor of type Coastal (Breakwater).
What is the channel depth of Richards Bay?▼
The channel depth of Richards Bay is 18.9 meters.
Location & Weather
Loading...
-28.81000, 32.09833
Channel depth: 18.9 m
Transit time routes from Richards Bay
The information on this page is based on publicly available transport and infrastructure data. The logistics significance of a location may change. All information without warranty.
No partner at this location yet
Your company operates here? Be the first partner visible at this hub.