The Port Authority of Thailand (PAT) has opened a new cargo-handling facility at Bangkok Port to speed up the processing of imported goods arriving by barge, reduce logistics costs and ease congestion.
The dedicated facility, covering 22,000 square metres at Warehouses 8 and 9, will handle less-than-container-load (LCL) imports transported via coastal shipping routes, including from Laem Chabang Port.
Sub Lt Rutthakorn Khiewpaisal, acting director-general of PAT, said the new area separates barge cargo operations from feeder vessel services, which previously shared the same facilities and often caused delays.
The facility is directly connected to Road No. 2 and located next to container yards, allowing containers arriving by barge to be opened and processed immediately after docking.
“This reduces waiting times, unnecessary container relocations and truck travel distances within the port, while improving safety and easing congestion,” Sub Lt Rutthakorn said.
LCL shipments combine goods from multiple importers in a single container to maximise space and reduce transport costs. Once the container arrives, the goods must be sorted, inspected, stored and distributed to individual importers.
PAT said the new facility is expected to improve cargo flow through coastal shipping routes, speed up container turnover and lower operating costs for shipping lines and logistics operators.
The authority added that the project supports the Transport Ministry’s policy of promoting waterborne transport, which can help reduce road traffic and improve energy efficiency. PAT said it would continue upgrading port facilities and management systems to accommodate growing demand and strengthen the country’s logistics network.