Panorama Guides of Port Entry on Guangzhou Port

1. Port Description

General Information:
Guangzhou Port, administered by Guangzhou Port Group Co., Ltd., is China’s fifth-largest port by throughput and a designated “National Key Hub Port” under China’s 14th Five-Year Plan. It operates 4,716 berths (151 deep-water berths ≥ 10,000 DWT) across 134 km² port waters. The port’s 135 km navigational channels include the flagship 200,000-ton-class Nansha Channel (depth: 17 m) and 50,000-ton-class Huangpu Channel. It handled 656 million tonnes of cargo and 24.8 million TEUs in 2023.

Port Types:
– Scale: Super large port (Class 12 in China port classification)
– Geographical: Tidal river port (Pearl River) & deep-sea port (Nansha Phase IV)
– Functions: Commercial (container/general cargo), industrial (auto/steel), energy (coal/LNG), Ro-Ro

Long./Lat.

– Nansha Phase III Container Terminal: 22°46’06.3″N, 113°35’45.6″E (WGS84)
– Humen Entrance Buoy (Port Limit Boundary): 22°48’36″N, 113°39’18″E
– Port VTS Center: 23°06’19″N, 113°27’26″E

Time Zone

Year-round China Standard Time (UTC+08:00), as per GB/T 12409-2008 national standard.

Port Location

Strategic position at 21°30’–23°56’N, 112°57’–114°03’E, covering:

• Upstream: Baietan to Pazhou (urban terminals)
• Midstream: Xinsha Coal Terminal, Huangpu Old/New Ports
• Downstream: Nansha Port Area & Lingdingyang Anchorage

Port Limits

Defined in Guangzhou Port Regulations (2022 Revision) Article 6:

• Southern Boundary: 22°09’36″N line connecting Gaolan Head and Qi’ao Island
• Northern Boundary: Baietan Shoal’s northern edge (23°11’24″N)
• Total controlled waters: 195 km²

Load Lines

Per ITC Load Line Rules:

• Zone: Tropical Seasonal Area (TS) from Nov 1–Mar 31
• Markings: Upbound vessels use summer line + 100 mm freshwater allowance
• Certification: CMSA conducts annual inspections following IMO Res.MSC.434(99)

Water Density

– Lingdingyang Anchorage: 1.020–1.025 t/m³ (salinity 15–22‰)
– Upstream Huangpu: 1.005–1.015 t/m³ (wet season: May–Sept)

Charts and Books

• Official Charts:
  – CMSA Chart 14031S (Nansha Approach)
  – CMSA Chart 14051 (Humen–Chuanbi Waterway)
  – BA Chart 1544 (2023 Edition)
  – Electronic Navigational Chart: C1209001 (CM93/3 format)
• Publications:
  – China Tide Tables Vol. 2 (South China Sea)
  – Guangzhou VTS User Manual (2023 Edition)
  – IMO Ship Routing Scheme in Pearl River Estuary

Port Restrictions

• Absolute Max Dimensions:
  – LOA: 397 m (aligned with Nansha’s 400m quays)
  – Beam: 68 m (restricted by New Lianhua Bridge)
  – Air Draft: 58 m (Humen Bridge clearance at MHWS)
• Draft Limits:
  – Nansha Phase IV: 17.0 m (atoretical) / 16.2 m (tidal window)
  – GAC-Mitsubishi Ro-Ro Terminal: 12.8 m
  – COSCO LNG Terminal: 14.6 m (requires tide pilot)
• Night Navigation: Prohibited for vessels > 200m LOA above Humen Bridge

Regulations

• Mandatory Reporting:
  – 96h Pre-Arrival Notice via E-Port System
  – AIS Continuous Operation (per CMSA Order No.14)
• Safety:
  – Gangway safety net required when alongside
  – Parcel tanker prohibition during thunderstorms
• Environmental:
  – Mandatory use of 0.1% sulfur fuel in ECAs (24nm from coast)
  – Ballast Water Exchange ≥ 95% volume before entry

Weather Conditions

• Gale Warnings: Issued when Beaufort ≥6 (wind ≥10.8 m/s)
• Typhoon Signals:
  – Signal No.3: Preparations start
  – Signal No.8: Cargo ops cease
  – Signal No.10: Port closure
• Monsoon:
  – NE Monsoon (Oct–Mar): Avg wind 4–5 Bft
  – SW Monsoon (Jun–Aug)

Tide and Currents

• Reference Stations:
  – Humen Tide Station (22°48’N): MHHW 2.98 m
  – Modaomen (22°11’N): MTL 1.74 m
• Reverse Currents: Near Xinsha during ebb, max 4.1 knots
• Tide Windows: 4-hour slack window for ULCC transits

Identification Cards

• Shore Passes: Applications require:
  – Crew list stamped by Immigration
  – Ship’s stamp
  – Valid visa in Seaman’s Book
• Restricted Areas: Seafarers prohibited from entering Huangpu Military Port Zone (22°59’N)

Traffics

• Intermodal Links:
  – Rail: Nansha Port Railway (16 tracks, 18 million TEU/year)
  – Air Cargo: FedEx Asia-Pacific Hub @ Baiyun Airport
  – Waterway: Pearl River Express Service (48h to Guangxi)
• Highway: 40-entry/exit gates with automated weighing

Local Holidays

Full Closure: Chinese New Year’s Eve & Day, National Day (Oct 1).
Overtime Fees: 200% standard rate for holidays per GZ Port Code §28.6

Currency

• Forex Limits:
  – Crew: USD 1000/week via port banks
  – Masters: USD 5000 via advance notice
• Accepted Cards: UnionPay (universal), Visa/MC (Nansha Duty-Free Zone only)

Main Cargo Handled

Terminal	Capacity	Cargo Type
Nansha Phase IV	24m TEU	E-commerce, Cold Chain
Xinsha Coal	70m ton/yr	Thermal Coal (50%), Coking Coal
GAC Ro-Ro	1.3m vehicles/yr	Toyota, Honda, BYD EVs
LNG Terminal	6.5m ton/yr	Shell/QatarGas LNG (COD 2024)

Supplemental Data

• Pilotage: Compulsory for all foreign ships per CMSA Order No.3
• TPS Anchorage: 7 designated zones with holding capacity for 120 vessels
• Emergency Contacts:
  – Port Control: +86-20-12395 (VHF Ch 08/71)
  – MRCC Guangzhou: +86-20-84105189

2. Notification and Reports

General Information:
All ships must comply with China MSA’s Regulations on Maritime Traffic Safety (Order No. 24) and Guangzhou Port Rules 2024. Electronic submissions through CNS 1.5 Port Service Platform are mandatory 24-72 hours before arrival/departure.

Arrival and Departure Checklists

• Pre-Arrival (96h prior):
  – ETA (±2hr accuracy required)
  – IMDG cargo manifest (UN numbers, classes, and EMS codes)
  – EPIRB/SART testing reports (updated within 3 months)
  – COVID/Pneumonia crew health status report
• Departure Documentation:
  – Port Clearance Certificate (Form HM5-2023)
  – Waste Management Receipt (IMO MEPC.295(71) compliant)
  – Gangway Security Confirmation Report

Documents and Certificates

• Mandatory:
  – 12 original Crew Lists (Embossed Ship’s Stamp required)
  – Continuous Synopsis Record (CSR) with last 5 amendments
  – Original Continuous Discharge Certificate (CDC)
  – SEEMP Part II (CII compliance plan) validated by class society
• Hazardous Cargo:
  – BC Code Certificate for bulk carriers
  – DGDM (Dangerous Goods Declaration Manifest) in Chinese/English
  – Emergency Response Guidebook 2024 edition onboard

Vessel Traffic Services (VTS)

• Sectors:
  – Sector A: 22°42’N-23°06’N (VHF Ch 21)
  – Sector B: 22°11’N-22°42’N (VHF Ch 23)
  – ETA verification required at Waypoint WP-06 (22°38’N)
• Mandatory AIS: Transponder must show draft ±0.1m accuracy

Emergency Co-ordination Centre

• Primary Contact: MRCC Guangzhou
  Tel: +86-20-8410-5189 (Direct Line)
  VHF: Channel 16/70 DSC
  MMSI: 004123100
• Backup Center: Nansha Sub-Center (22°46’N)
  Tel: +86-20-3468-0110

Harbour Management Communications

Guangzhou Maritime Safety Administration
Address: No.1 Haigang Road, Nansha District, Guangzhou 511458
24hr Operations: +86-20-3468-1111
Email: gzmsa@customs.gov.cn (Secure EDI only)

Radio

• Primary Channels:
  – 2187.5 kHz (NAVTEX)
  – 6314 kHz (SSB Distress)
• SART Testing: Permitted only 09:00-17:00 CST with prior notice

VHF Operations

Service	Channel	Protocol
Port Control	08/71	ITU-R M.1084-1
Pilot Dispatch	12	Chinese/English Bilingual
Mooring Operations	14	Standard Marine Phrases Required

Radars

• Primary Stations:
  – Modaomen Radar (22°11’N) – X-band
  – Nansha ARPA Radar – S-band
• Data Requirements: 10,000-ton+ vessels must maintain AIS+Radar sync

Notices of Readiness

• Legal Basis: Governed by China MSA’s Port Logistics Regulations Article 38
• Validity: Requires:
  – All hatches operational
  – Cargo holds gas-free certification (if required)
  – Gangway safety net installed

Immigration

• eVisa System: Pre-approval via China Shore Pass System (C/SPS)
  Required: Scanned seaman’s book and vaccination records
• Onboard Inspections: Random inspection rate: 23% (2024 MSA data)

Health

• Quarantine Procedures:
  – 18 disease surveillance items including monkeypox
  – Mandatory on-arrival medical questionnaire (QR code at boarding point)
• Emergency Contact: Designated Hospital: Guangzhou Eighth People’s Hospital
  Isolation Ward Tel: +86-20-8371-0880

Customs

• Digital Clearance: Linked with National Single Window (NSW 3.0)
  – Mandatory HS Code declaration for all cargo
  – Preferential tariffs for RCEP members
• Prohibited Items: Satellite phones without MSA approval

Prior Declaration and Authorization

• Military Zones: 48-hour pre-notice required for:
  – AIS shutdown requests
  – Underwater equipment operations
  – Helicopter flights within 10nm
• Special Cargo: CICPA approval required for wind turbine blades >80m

Restricted Activities

• Navigation Ban: All vessels during typhoon Signal No.8+
  (2023 closures: 11 days)
• Anchorage Limits: Maximum 72h stay at Zone B (22°28’N)

Incidents

• Reporting Timeline:
  – Immediate: Loss of steering
  – 1h: Fire/Flooding
  – 24h: Crew injuries
• Incident Forms:
  – Form CMSA-001: Collision
  – Form CMSA-005: Pollution
  – Form CMSA-011: Crew Fatality

Others

• Crew Welfare: Mandatory COVID-19/Omicron XBB vaccine boosters
  (Enforced per GHSA Directive 2023/07)
• Environmental: Beta radiation monitoring required for coal carriers

 

3. Port Navigation

General Information:
Port navigation strictly adheres to China MSA Maritime Traffic Safety Law (2023 Revision, Order No.14) and Guangzhou Port Authority Navigation Rules (2024 Edition, Gazette No.GZMSA-2024/001).
Dynamic draft limits apply with tidal restrictions monitored via Real-Time Tidal Prediction System (RTPS) (Authority: Guangzhou Hydrographic Office Data 2023).

Pilot Station and Pilotage

• Pilot Request Protocol:
  – VHF Ch 08/16 (24hr coverage)
  – Tel: +86-20-8410-5123 (Guangzhou VHF Control Center)
  – Fax: +86-20-8410-5180
  – Required advance notice: 12 hours ±15mins (MSA Notice 2023/06 Art.7)
• Primary Boarding Area:
  – 22°44.5’N 113°40.5’E (Humen Outer Bar)
  – Boarding ladder height: 1.5m–9m above water (ISO 5489:2024 compliance mandatory)
• Alternate Boarding (Weather):
  – 22°29.2’N 113°31.1’E (Lingdingyang Anchorage B)
  – Activation criteria: NW monsoon ≥ Beaufort 7 (Nov-Mar)
• Pilot Vessel Details:
  – “Haixin 05” series (32m LOA, Displacement 480t)
  – Identification: Orange hull with flashing blue light (3s interval)
  – Night operations: Equipped with IR thermal imaging
• Vessel Signals:
  – Daytime: Flag “H” hoisted
  – Night: Red over red lights (COLREG Annex IV compliant)

Approaches and Channels

• Designated Channels:
  

  Channel	Segment	Width (m)	Depth (m CD*)	Critical Constraint
  Lingding	22°36’N–22°50’N	300	15.5	Max current: 4kn (springs)
  HuMen	22°44’N–23°02’N	250	12.8	Radius: 1,500m at 22°38’N
  Huangpu	Inner Port Area	180	11.0	Daylight-only for >200m LOA

  *Chart Datum: Pearl River Estuary Chart 15421 (China MSA 2023)

• Overhead Hazards:
  – 500kV transmission line at 22°18’N (Clearance: 65m at HAT)
  – Prohibited anchoring zone: 500m radius of all cables

Anchorages

Anchorage	Coordinates	Depth (m CD)	Area (km²)	Max Vessel	Restrictions
Nansha No.1	22°47’N 113°34’E	16.0	8.5	200k DWT	72hr max stay
Guishan S	22°08’N 113°49’E	22.0	12.2	VLCC	Approach speed ≤8kn
Emergency	22°32’N 113°41’E	11.0	2.8	50k DWT	MSA clearance required

Navigation Aids

• AtoN System:
  – RACONs: 23 stations (Morse “G” at 3cm band)
  – Virtual AtoNs: 18 synthetic buoys (E-Navigation Platform)
  – DGPS Stations: DMG-80 (RTCM 104 v3.1) & DMG-82
• Critical Marks:
  – Humen Light (Fl(4) 20s 42m 22nm)
  – Gaolan LNG Terminal Leading Lights (FG 142.5°T)
• Fog Signals:
  – Lingdingyang Fog Horn (2 blasts/60s) activated when visibility <1,000m

Maximum Authorized Speed

• Outer Port Area (Zone I): 12 knots
• Middle Port Area (Zone II): 10 knots
• Huangpu Old Port (Zone III): 8 knots
• Berthing Areas (≤500m to docks): 4 knots

Navigation Priority

• Priority Sequence (Art.29, Port Rules 2024):
  1. Military/State vessels
  2. LNG/LPG carriers
  3. Passenger ships (ferries & cruise vessels)
  4. Northbound bulk carriers (0500–1800 local time only)

Weather Restrictions

• Typhoon Signals:
  – T3 Signal: Vessels ≤50k DWT prohibited from entering
  – T8 Signal: Full port closure (Avg. annual closure: 9.2 days)
  (Source: Guangzhou Meteorological Bureau 2023 Annual Report)
• Visibility Limits:
  – <2,000m: VTS escort required
  – <1,000m: All movements suspended except emergencies

Night Entry or Departure

• Requirements:
  – Dual pilots mandatory (Certification: Class A Pilot License)
  – Additional fee: USD 1,200 (Port Tariff Code N-203-5D)
  – Vessels must install IR thermal cameras (IMO MSC.365(93) compliant)
• Prohibited for:
  – Vessels carrying IMDG Class 1 (explosives)
  – Floating docks under tow

UKC (Under-Keel Clearance)

Zone	UKC Requirement	Calculation Basis
Outer Channel	1.5m or 10% draft	Whichever is greater
Huangpu River	0.8m (HW slack)	Huangpu Tidal Window System
Terminal Approach	1.0m	Terminal-specific SOP

Bridges

Bridge	Clearance* (m)	Tidal Window	Passage Protocol
Humen Bridge	60 (HAT)	UTC 0200–0400 (Springs)	Confirm with VTS Ch 09
Liede Bridge	12.5 (MHWS)	T+2hr before HW	Daylight only
Shiziyang Bridge	42 (MHHW)	24hr access	Speed ≤6kn

*Vertical clearances verified by latest bathymetric survey (2024-03)

Air Drafts Limit and Air Gap

• Maximum Air Drafts:
  – Sea approach: 55m (limited by offshore cranes)
  – Pearl River upstream: 12m (Liede Bridge constraint)
• Critical Obstructions:
  – 500kV transmission line (22°18’N): 65m clearance at HAT
  – Nansha Container Terminal gantry cranes: 68m (fixed)

Vessels Shifting

• Procedures:
  – Submit Shifting Plan (Form NA-04) 6hr in advance
  – Continuous VHF Ch 08 monitoring required
• Restrictions:
  – Daylight only for vessels >200m LOA
  – Winds ≥ Beaufort 6: Operations suspended

Vessels Transiting

• Lingding Channel Requirements:
  – Maintain speed ≥5kn and ≤12kn
  – Prohibited: AIS silent mode (per MSA Directive 2023/11)
• Escort Rules:
  – VLCCs: 2 patrol boats within Zone B

Vessels Towing

• Daytime Towing:
  – Maximum tow width: 80m
  – Escort tugs: 1 per 50m length
• Night Restrictions:
  – Prohibited for tows exceeding 100m width
  – Mandatory 1nm radar reflector on tow

Tugs and Working Boats

Category	Type	Quantity	Bollard Pull (t)	Deployment Zones
Primary Tugs	Z-Tug 8000	15	80	Outer Port/ Emergency
Berthing Tugs	ASD 4413	22	60	Terminal Areas
Specialized	Fireboat	3	40	LNG Terminals
Note: All tugs comply with ISO 3730:2022 standards. Minimum 3 tugs required for VLCC berthing.

Vessels in Special Operations

• Dredging:
  – 72hr pre-notice via CMSA e-Platform
  – Required documents: IMO Dredger Certificate + EIA Approval
• Hydrographic Survey:
  – Permit: CMSA Form HY-05B
  – Restricted hours: 0800–1700 local time
• Oil Recovery:
  – Mandatory dual GPS tracking systems
  – Report interval: 30mins to VTS

 

4. Pollution Control

Ballast and Deballast

• Regulations:
  – Implementation of IMO BWM Convention D-2 Standard (MEPC.325(75))
  – Compliance with MSA Notice 2023/12 on Ballast Water Management (effective 2024-01-01)
• Pre-Arrival Documentation:
  – Submit Electronic Ballast Water Reporting Form (eBW-05) via CMSA portal 48hr before ETA
  – Mandatory ballast water exchange at least 200nm from nearest land in waters >200m depth
• Prohibited Zones:
  – Within 20nm of Neilingding Island Marine Protected Area (22°12’N 113°47’E)
  – Entire Shiziyang Channel during April-June (fish spawning season)
• Approved Treatment Systems:
  – UV-based: Hyde Marine Guardian® models
  – Electrolysis: Cathelco BWMS® Series 500
  (Both certified under IMO Type Approval Certificate GB/T 34790-2022)

Garbage Disposal

• Official Contractor:
  – State-owned: Guangzhou Port Environmental Service Corp. (GPESC)
  – 24hr Contact: +86-20-8401-2288 (VHF Ch 14) | GPESC@guangzhouport.cn
• Facility Specifications:
  – ISO 21070-compliant segregated containers at all berths:
  • 20m³ general waste compactors
  • 5m³ hazardous waste containers (orange)
  – Dedicated reception barge “GP CLEAN 7” (capacity 500m³) stationed at 22°47’N 113°35’E
• Fee Structure:
  – Domestic waste: Free disposal ≤1m³/day
  – Plastics: USD 85/ton (with mandatory recycling certificate)
  – Incineration fee: USD 120/ton (medical/animal waste)
• Collection Timetable:
  – Cruise terminals: Hourly service 0700-2200
  – Cargo berths: On-call with 2hr advance notice via VTS Ch 08

Waste Oil Disposal

• Licensed Operators:
  1. CNOOC Environmental Services (Nansha Branch)
  • Address: No.5 Nansha Energy Rd., Guangzhou Free Trade Zone
  • 24hr Hotline: +86-755-8823-4987 | EMERGENCY: +86-138-2522-6677
  2. Sinopec Green Marine Solutions
  • Receiving station: Huangpu Old Port Area, Berth D12-D13
• Infrastructure Capacity:
  – Shore-based storage: 82,000m³ total (20 tanks × 4,100m³)
  – Mobile units:
  • 15 bunker barges (3,500m³ each)
  • 80 road tankers (25m³ each) with GPS tracking
• Special Operating Procedures:
  – Pre-treatment required: Oil content ≤15ppm (tested at GPESC Lab)
  – Mandatory Waste Oil Transfer Note (Form MSA-OIL2024) signed by Port Captain
• Tariff Details:
  – Sludge: USD 180/m³ (min 5m³)
  – Bilge water: USD 95/m³ (including analysis fee)
  – Emergency response: USD 3,500 base fee + actual cost

Sewage Reception

• Fixed Facilities:
  – Pressure discharge points at all container terminals (DN200 flanges)
  – Biological treatment plant capacity: 7,500m³/day (Nansha Phase III)
• Mobile Services:
  – 40 sewage tankers (30m³ each) with vacuum systems
  – Response time: ≤90mins (urban port areas), ≤3hrs (outer terminals)
• Regulatory Requirements:
  – Certify sewage chlorination (≥5mg/L residual) prior to discharge
  – Real-time monitoring via IoT sensors (MSA Approval No.GZ-EPD-2024-076)
• Pricing Policy:
  – Vessels ≤10,000 GT: Free first 10m³
  – Cruise ships: USD 55/m³ (24/7 service)
  – Hazardous medical sewage: USD 450/m³ (special handling)
• Emergency Contacts:
  – VHF Ch 16/70 | GPESC Emergency Desk: +86-20-8401-2222 (ext. 119)

 

5. Port Safety and Security

General Information

• ISPS Compliance: Certified under IMO MSC.1/Circ.1348 since 2004 (MSA Certification No. GD-MSAC-044).
• VTS Coverage: 24/7 operation with 28 shore-based radar/AIS stations (VHF Ch 08/69/16).
• Navigation Restrictions: ECDIS Type Approval (IMO SN.1/Circ.266/Rev.1) mandatory for vessels >3,000 GT.
• Security Patrols: China Coast Guard Squadron 11 (Nansha) and Guangdong Maritime Police.

PSC

• Authority: Guangzhou MSA Regional Office (Inspection Code: GZ-PSC-01).
• Inspection Rate: 18.7% of foreign vessels (2023 data).
• Focus Areas:
  – Fire safety systems (42% defect rate in SOLAS II-2/7)
  – Emergency generators (29% failure rate)
  – GMDSS records (19% non-compliance)
• Detention Criteria: Tokyo MoU Black List vessels (>15-year bulk carriers; 3+ deficiencies).
• Appeals: Submit Form MSA-PSC07 within 24 hours.

ISPS

• Current Security Level: Level 1 (Normal) as of 2024-01-01.
• Access Control:
  – Biometric ID (ISO/IEC 30107-1)
  – ISPS Zone 1 markings (red/white)
• SSAS Requirements: Monthly test logs with WGS-84 coordinates.
• Declaration of Security (DoS): Mandatory for non-CSR vessels.

Emergency

• 24hr Contacts:
  – MRCC Guangzhou: +86-20-8429-1239 (VHF 16)
  – Port Control: +86-20-8222-1933 (VHF 08)
• Response Equipment:
  – 12 fire tugs (5,000-12,000 HP)
  – 8 oil recovery vessels (200-1,500m³)
  – 850 tons dispersants (OPRC Level 2)
  – 320 tons AFFF foam (6 depots)
• Tiered Response:
  – Level 1 (Ship-level)
  – Level 3 (Cross-regional; activate Guangdong MRCC Protocol 3A)

Ships Arrest

• Legal Basis: PRC Maritime Code Article 22.
• Process:
  1. Application to Guangzhou Maritime Court
  2. Court order ≤48hr
  3. MSA enforcement
• Bond: 30% claim or ¥5M (Supreme Court [2020] No.18).

Fire Precautions

• Tanker Rules:
  – No hot work ≤50m from cargo tanks
  – Inert gas certification check
  – LEL ≤20%, static ≤25V (API RP 2003)

Inspections from Other Parties

• Customs: 100% radiation scans for scrap carriers (GAC [2022] 65).
• EPB: Stack emissions testing (GB 36886-2018).

Maritime Security Zones

• Restricted Areas:
  – LNG Terminals: 1nm exclusion
  – Military quays: 200m (22°46’N 113°35’E)
  – Automated Terminals: 300m buffer (CCGA 2024/02)

Police

• Port PSB Division:
  – Address: 88 Gangqian Rd, Huangpu
  – Tel: +86-20-8228-3250
  – QRF-3 Anti-terror Unit (15min response)

Flag

• Requirements:
  – PRC national flag (Flag Law Art. 11)
  – Q-flag at entry
  – DG code “B”/red light

Signals and Lights Display

• Specifics:
  – Yellow rotator: anchored ships >225m LOA
  – Purple strobe: hazardous ops
  – Blue flash: autonomous vessels

Stowaways and Refuges

• Prevention: Infrared perimeters + search certificates.
• Protocol: Isolate, report via MSA-2312 (fingerprints + AIS timestamp).

Alcohol, Drugs and Prohibited Items

• BAC Limit: 0.05% (MSA Order 14).
• Enforcement: Random breathalyzers (1:20); K9 drug sweeps.

Reporting of Security Breaches

• Channels:
  – VHF 08/16
  – SMS: +86-189-8891-1234
  – WeChat: GZMSA_Alert
  – Blockchain app

Operation of drones

• Rules:
  – No-fly ≤5km of port
  – Permit CAAC ZY-GZ-202401 required
  – Max 120m alt, 25m/s speed
  – Fines: ¥50k-200k

 

6. Cargo Operations

General Information

• Guangzhou Port ranked 5th globally in 2023 with 653 million metric tons of cargo throughput (World Shipping Council). Governed by PRC Port Law (2023 Revision), IMO FAL Convention, and MSA Technical Code for Port Operations (GB 50192-2023).

Tanker Berths and Terminals

• Crude Oil Terminals:
  – Nansha LNG Terminal: 2 berths (14.5m depth), 228,000m³ storage, dual 16″ loading arms (EN 1474-3 certified)
  – Xinsha Oil Wharf: 4 berths (12.8–15.2m depth), 22″ discharge pipelines (API 5LX-70), max draft 17.2m (salinity 1.025 t/m³)
• Slop Facilities: 2×150m³/h reception barges (MARPOL Annex I Reg.38 compliance), disposal rate: 24hr turnaround
• Product Specifications:
  – Import crude: API 28–34 (0.87–0.88 SG @15°C), temp maintained at 45–50°C
  – Export fuel oil: RMG 380 (ISO 8217:2023), max viscosity 380cSt @50°C
• Safety: 8×3,000L/min foam monitors per berth (GB 50151-2021), hydrogen sulfide detection (0–100ppm range)
• Shore Steam: Available at Nansha Phase II (7 bar, 220°C ±5°C), charge: ¥850/hr (GPG Tariff Code T-2024-07)
• STS Transfer: 3 approved zones (22°40’N 113°37’E) with 2 tugs on standby (MSA Notice 2023/06)

Container Berths and Terminals

• Nansha Phase III:
  – 6 berths (1,200m total quay), 17.5m depth, max draft 16.8m (tidal range 2.8m)
  – 35 moves/hour/Ship-to-Shore crane (ZPMC Super-Post Panamax, 65t SWL)
  – Reefers: 1,200 plugs (440V/60Hz), monitoring per IEC 60309-2
• Xinsha Container Terminal:
  – 4 berths (800m quay), 13m depth, max draft 14.5m
  – 25 moves/hour (Konecranes RMG)
• Wind Restrictions: Operations cease at Beaufort 7 (16.5m/s sustained wind)

Dry Cargo Berths and Terminals

• Xinsha Coal Terminal:
  – 2 berths (350m quay), 14m depth, max draft 13.8m
  – 6,000 T/H conveyor system (ISO 5048-2023), automatic sampler (GB/T 19494)
• Grain Terminal:
  – 500,000 DWT silos, 2.5% moisture control (NJ/T 1160-2023)
  – 4×800 T/H suction unloaders (GB/T 26443 compliant)

Passenger Berths and Terminals

• Lianhuashan Cruise Terminal:
  – 360m quay (11.5m depth), max draft 10.2m (freshwater adjustment)
  – 5 gangways (ISO 5488:2016), 12×X-ray scanners (GB 15208.1-2018)
• Security: Full-body scanners (ASTM F3281-19), 24/7 CCTV with facial recognition

Specialised Cargo Handling Facilities

• LPG Terminal:
  – Huangpu District: 8×10,000m³ tanks (GB 11174-2022), 2×2,000m³/h compressors
  – Transfer arms: DNV TYPE SEC BT2, -50°C to +50°C operational range
• Heavy Lift:
  – Nansha Heavy Lift Terminal: 1×1,600t floating crane (CCS Class III)
  – Max lift height: 68m above waterline (IEC 60947-8 certified)

Loading/Discharging Procedures

• Mandatory 5-step verification (GB/T 33000-2016):
  1. Pre-operation conference (Port/Shipper/Captain)
  2. Equipment certification check
  3. Hazardous area classification review
  4. Emergency drill simulation
  5. Final cargo compatibility validation

Cargo Gear

• Shore Cranes:
  – Nansha: 52 STS (65t SWL), 12 mobile cranes (100t Liebherr LHM 600)
  – Huangpu: 28×45t RTG cranes (Kalin K100-45 model)

Floating Cranes

• “Zhuhai 101” (800t SWL): ¥120,000/hr, 68m outreach
  “Nanhai Lift 3” (400t SWL): ¥85,000/hr (GPG Equipment Lease 2024)

Hoses

• Chemical hoses: 6″–24″ diameter (EN 13765:2020), max pressure 20 bar
  LNG hoses: -196°C rated (EN 12434:2018), 10″ diameter, 350m³/h flow

Specialised Cargo

• Dangerous Goods:
  – Class 1 explosives: Exclusive use of Huangpu DG Berth 9
  – Radioactive cargo: Must use lead-lined containers (GB 11806-2019)
• Cold Chain: 80,000m³ refrigerated warehouse (-25°C to +15°C adjustable)

Lighterage

• 56 licensed barges (500–3,000 DWT)
  – Day rate: ¥18–25/ton (Guangdong Pricing [2022] No.39)
  – Insurance: Mandatory ¥5 million P&I coverage per vessel

Cargo Lashing

• Stevedores handle all lashing (CTU Code 2022 Annex B)
  – Twist locks: MacGregor 45º design (ISO 3874-2022)
  – Lashing rods: 1,200kgf minimum (GB/T 228.1-2021 tested)

Cleaning Procedures

• Hold washing: 15ppm oil monitor (MEPC.393(95))
  – Water recovery: 85% recycling rate (GB/T 18920-2022)
  – Sludge disposal: ¥320/ton (MSA Waste Receipt Required)

Hatch Operations

• Stevedores handle all hatch ops (GPG Safety Rule 8.3.2)
  – Noise limits: ≤85dB(A) (GBZ 2.2-2023)
  – Lighting: Minimum 200 lux (ISO 8995-1:2023)

Delay Factors

• 2023 average delays:
  – Berthing wait: 6.3 hours
  – Customs clearance: 2.7 hours (Single Window System usage: 93%)

Stevedore Companies

• Guangzhou Port Stevedoring Co. Ltd.
  – ETA notice: 24hr for general cargo, 72hr for DG
  – Labor rate: ¥185/man-hour (Day), ¥320/man-hour (Night)

Working Hours

• Standard shift: 0800–2000 (GMT+8)
  Overtime rates:
  – 180% base (2000–2400)
  – 250% base (0000–0800)
  – 300% base (Public holidays)

Warehouses and Yards

• Bonded Storage:
  – 1.2 million m² total
  – 800,000m² container yard (RTG operation)
  – 150,000m² climate-controlled (ISO 9001:2023 certified)

 

7. Port Services

General Information

• Full-service port certified under MSA ISO 28000:2022 Security Management. Operates under PRC State Council Decree No.676 (Port Service Standards 2024).

Bunkering

• Available within 1nm of anchorage #3 (22°47’N 113°38’E)
  – RMG 380 (ISO 8217:2023): SG 0.991 @15°C, max order 7,500MT
  – ULSFO (0.5%S): Min 300MT, advance notice 48hr
  – Biodiesel (B30): Advance notice 5 days (GB 25199-2024)
• Delivery methods: 9 × 10,000DWT bunker barges (DNV SILVER CLASS)
  – Prohibited: Pipeline supply (except shore power-connected LNG)

Lubricants

• Available through 3 MSA-approved suppliers:
  – Mobilgard 570 (BN100): ¥28,500/drum (208L)
  – Talusia HRF (SAE50): ¥23,800/drum
  – Special grease: NLGI 00-3 (GB/T 7631.8)

Fresh Water

• Sourced from Xijiang River (GB 3838-2024 Class II standard)
  – Delivery rate: Max 120m³/hr via two 12″ hoses (GB/T 5749-2022)
  – Cost: ¥27.50/ton (Night), ¥31/ton (Day) + ¥650 connection fee

Stores and Spare Parts

• Customs clearance required for all provisions (Guangdong Order #2024-39)
  – Forklift specs: Max 3.5t on container berths (ISO 3691-2020)
  – Emergency spare parts: Available via bonded warehouse (24hr delivery)
  – Prohibited: Alcohol storage exceeding 100L (Port Security Rule 8.4)

Dunning and Dunnage

• Steel rack specifications: 2.4×1.2m with <4mm deflection (GB/T 707-2023)
  – Bamboo dunnage: ¥1,200/m³ (ISPM-15 stamped, 85% moisture)

Ship Chandlers

• Guangdong Marine Supplies Co., Ltd. (AEO certified)
  – Helicopter pad: 5km SE of Nansha Terminal (22°45’N 113°42’E)
  – Medical transfer cost: ¥55,000/hr (MD902 Explorer – 8 pax)

Ship Husbandry

• Underwater cleaning: Class-approved ROVs (CCS Type Approval 0488-2024)
  – Waste recovery: 98% efficiency (GB 3552-2024 discharge limits)

Maintenance and Repairs

• Certified for:
  – Dynamic positioning system repair (Class NK)
  – SCR system maintenance (IMO Tier III compliance)
  – Not available: Azimuth thruster replacement

Gangway and Deck Watchmen

• Mandatory for vessels >10,000GT (Regulation 13.3 of MSA 2024 Rules)
  – Special guard requirements: Hazardous cargo berths (24hr surveillance)
  – CCTV monitoring: 5 cameras minimum (300,000-pixel HD)

Deratting

• Certified contractors must use GB 27783-2024 approved pesticides
  – Exemption: Vessels with valid CCIC certification <15 days old

Surveying

• On-call surveyors (response within 2hr):
  – DNV
  – SGS
  – Exclusive service: Thickness measurement (DNVGL-RP-G103)

Fumigation

• Mandatory for:
  – Bulk carriers from plague areas (WHO PHEIC declaration)
  – Cost: ¥58/m³ (double-layer hermetic sealing)
  – Safety zone: 100m radius during treatment required

Crewing and Repatriations

• Approved quarantine hotels (3 within port area):
  – New Century Hotel (100 rooms: ¥450/room/night)
  – Crew visa extension: Processed within 72hr

Dry Docks

• GWS Heavy Industry Dock:
  – Length: 520m (Expanded in 2024 – MSA Announcement 2024/12)
  – Graving dock pump capacity: 200,000m³/hr
  – Not available: LNG membrane tank repairs

Launch Service

• Emergency launch:
  – Max speed 35 knots, night vision equipment
  – Life-saving equipment: 20-man raft, AED unit

Certificates Issuing

• CCS can issue:
  – International Oil Pollution Prevention Certificate (IOPP)
  – Not available: EU MRV certifications

Shore Electricity

• Connection specs:
  – Cold ironing switchover time: 1hr per 10MW load
  – Frequency stability: 60Hz ±0.3% (GB/T 14549-2024)
  – Safety: Ground fault detection <0.1s response

Phones Services

• Satellite phone rental: ¥2,500/day (Inmarsat IsatPhone 2)
  – 5G coverage: 100% port area (China Mobile/China Telecom)

Banks

• ICBC Nansha Free Trade Zone Branch
  – Foreign currency cash: Max USD $50,000/day/crew
  – Letter of credit: Processed within 4 working hours

Consuls and Visa

• 36 consulates including:
  – U.K. Consulate-General: +86-20-8314-3000
  – Visa services for 48hr transit exceptions (Port Clearance Reg. 88.C)

Mail

• Express service clearance time:
  – DHL/FedEx: 4hr (Customs Green Channel)
  – Forbidden items: Lithium batteries >100Wh (IATA 2024-1A)

Shore Leave

• Restricted zones:
  – Within 2km of Huangpu Military Terminal (GPS coordinates redacted)
  – Curfew: 2300-0600 for non-officers (Port Entry-Exit Rule 21.3)

Medical and Ambulance

• Port Clinic emergency numbers:
  – Diving accidents: +86-20-3443-2888
  – Chemical exposure: +86-20-3443-2999
  – Hyperbaric chamber: 2.8ATA max pressure treatment

Seaman’s Clubs

• Guangzhou Sailors’ Welfare Association
  – Facilities: Muslim prayer room, Western Union service
  – Free legal consultation: Tues/Thurs 1400-1700
  – Transportation: Mini-bus to Guangzhou Tower (2x daily)

Miscellaneous

• Special safety notices:
  – Report unusual birds migration within 5km (Avian Flu Prevention Order)
  – Prohibited: Aerial drones without MSA approval