UN/LOCODE MX MEX: Port of Lazaro Cardenas, Mexico — Seaport
Location
| Coordinates | 17.95, -102.18 |
|---|---|
| Country | Mexico |
| Function | Mexico's Largest Container Port, Pacific Gateway |
| Authority | Administracion Portuaria Integral de Lazaro Cardenas |
Physical Specifications
| Max Draft | 16.5m |
|---|---|
| Channel Depth | 17.0m |
| Tide Range | 0.8m |
| Berth Length | 500m (APM Terminal) |
| Anchorage Depth | 22m |
Administrative
| Customs Code | MX MEX |
|---|---|
| IMO Facility No. | MXMEX-0001 |
| Working Hours | 24/7 |
| ISPS Compliance | Yes (Level 1) |
| VHF Channel | 16 (Call), 12 (Port Ops) |
| Port Website | www.portlazarocardenas.com.mx |
Commercial & Logistics
| Annual Volume | 2.8 million TEU (2025) |
|---|---|
| Primary Cargo Types | Container, Iron Ore, Steel, Automobiles |
| Vessel Types | Container, Bulk (Iron Ore), Tanker |
| Free Trade Zone | Yes (Lazaro Cardenas FTZ) |
| Bunker Fuel | IFO 380, VLSFO |
| Nearest Airport | MEX (350km) / IXT (180km) |
| Rail Connection | Ferromex (Kansas City Southern de Mexico) |
| Highway Access | Highway 200, Highway 37D |
| Inland Depots | CFS in Morelia Industrial Park |
Trade Intelligence: Lazaro Cardenas
Lazaro Cardenas is classified as a Seaport with annual throughput of 2.8 million TEU (2025). The port handles Container, Iron Ore, Steel, Automobiles. As Mexico's Largest Container Port, Pacific Gateway, Lazaro Cardenas plays a critical role in Mexico's trade infrastructure. Shippers should confirm berth availability, draft restrictions, and ISPS security levels directly with Administracion Portuaria Integral de Lazaro Cardenas before scheduling vessel calls.
Port History
Developed 1976 as Mexico's deep-water alternative to Acapulco. Named after President Lazaro Cardenas. The only Mexican port capable of handling fully-loaded Post-Panamax vessels. Steel mill adjacent — Mexico's largest.
Authority: Administracion Portuaria Integral de Lazaro Cardenas
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the LOCODE for Lazaro Cardenas?
The UN/LOCODE is MX MEX. Use in bills of lading and customs declarations.
What trade routes connect to Lazaro Cardenas?
Lazaro Cardenas serves as Mexico's Largest Container Port, Pacific Gateway. MX LZR, US LAX, US LGB, CN SHA, SG SIN, PA PTY
How do I find shipping schedules?
Contact Administracion Portuaria Integral de Lazaro Cardenas or query carriers (Maersk, MSC, CMA CGM) using LOCODE MX MEX.
Data Sources & Provenance
Port specifications compiled from:
- UNECE UN/LOCODE Directory — United Nations official location codes
- Administracion Portuaria Integral de Lazaro Cardenas — official port authority
- IMO GISIS — maritime facility database
Updated: June 2026. For reference only. Not for navigation.