The Top 10 Busiest Seaports in the World

Ocean shipping is an essential component of the supply chain for many industries, making it the cornerstone of international trade. Currently, there are 835 main seaports across the globe, moving approximately 99% of the world’s traded goods. With so many seaports, you may be curious about the top port sites. Check it out – the main seaports of the world are the following:

10. Port of Rotterdam

This famous port is one of Europe’s largest (and oldest) ports. The Port of Rotterdam opened in the 14th century and is in the Netherlands. It was considered the world’s busiest port each year from 1962 through 2004. Its ability to connect to London, Paris, and Germany’s Ruhr district makes it one of the most important distribution centers on the continent.

• 2021 container volume: 15.3 million TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units)
• Covers 41 square miles
• Committed to carbon-neutral operations

9. Port of Hong Kong

This major port is located near the Kowloon Peninsula and is a vital sea trading hub in Southeast Asia. The waters surrounding the Port of Hong Kong are very deep, making it ideal for accommodating all sizes of shipping vessels.

• 2021 container volume: 18.0 million TEUs
• Covers approximately 689 acres and has 24 berths
• Handles around 450,000 vessels annually

8. Port of Tianjin

While this may not be the largest seaport in the world, it is the largest in Northern China. The Port of Tianjin has nine port areas, and three – Beijiang, Nanjiang, and Dongjiang – manage most of the trade operations. Being one of the top ports in the world, it trades with more than 180 countries and territories around the globe.

• 2021 container volume: 20.2 million TEUs
• Handles metals, oil, ores, petroleum, steel goods, vehicles, coal, grains, cereals, and more
• Connected to 13 Chinese provinces

7. Port of Busan

This busy seaport is owned by the Busan Port Authority and is located at the Korean peninsula’s tip. International trade is carried out in the eastern part of the port, while the western part is reserved mainly for fisheries. More than 30% of Korea’s maritime cargo comes through the Port of Busan.

• 2021 container volume: 22.7 million TEUs
• 120+ cargo ships come through the port every day
• Established in 1876

6. Port of Qingdao

The Port of Qingdao is near the Yellow Sea in the Shandong Province of China. It began operating in the 18th century and is essential to worldwide trade in the West Pacific. Being a top port in the world, it trades with over 450 other ports in approximately 130 countries.

• 2021 container volume: 23.7 million TEUs
• Has the ability to handle a net capacity of 400 million tonnes annually
• The largest port in China for crude oil shipments

5. Port of Guangzhou

The Port of Guangzhou, controlled by the Guangzhou Port Authority, is the fifth busiest container facility globally. Historians believe that this port has been operational since 200 BC, acting as an essential link in the “Silk Road on the Sea.”

• 2021 container volume: 24.2 million TEUs
• Located where three main rivers meet
• Trades with more than 300 ports in 100+ countries

4. Port of Shenzhen

The Port of Shenzhen is the fourth busiest seaport in the world. It is comprised of numerous ports that are located along the Shenzhen shoreline in Guangdong, China. This government-owned port contains 140 docks and handles cargo vessels of all different sizes.

• 2021 container volume: 28.8 million TEUs
• Home to 40+ shipping companies
• 560 ships are on call at this port each month

3. Port of Ningbo-Zhoushan

This vital port lies on the busiest coastline shipping route in China. It is the third busiest seaport in the world, with links to 600 other ports across 150 countries. The primary cargo handled at the Port of Ningbo-Zhoushan includes bulk, breakbulk, product oil, crude oil, liquid chemicals, coal, machinery, grains, and more.

• 2021 container volume: 30 million TEUs
• Has 19 port regions
• Many of the world’s top shipping companies have offices at this port

2. Port of Singapore

The second world’s busiest seaport is the Port of Singapore. Because of its strategic location, Singapore has been an important trading port for around two centuries. The port has 130,000 vessel calls annually and 84 berths across six main terminals.

• 2021 container volume: 37.48 million TEUs
• Connected to 600+ ports across 123 countries
• Has an automated container terminal named Tuas Port under construction with a predicted completion date of 2040

1. Port of Shanghai

The Port of Shanghai is the largest seaport in the world AND the busiest port in the world. It spans 2,200 square miles and is located along the Yangtze River Delta. This massive port surpassed the Port of Singapore as the busiest in 2010 and is often referred to as the world’s most rapidly growing economy.

• 2021 container volume: 47 million TEUs
• Has 19 terminal facilities
• More than 1/4 of China’s trade is handled here

The Top 5 Busiest Seaports in the United States

While the U.S. doesn’t have any of the world’s largest ports, the country’s seaports still handle millions of twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) each year. Let’s look at some of the busiest seaports in the United States.

5. The Northwest Seaport Alliance (Washington)

The Northwest Seaport Alliance, the fifth busiest port in the U.S., is a partnership between the ports of Tacoma and Seattle, Washington. This port offers quicker U.S.-to-Asia shipments and has a great connection with Alaska.

• 2021 container volume: 3.73 million TEUs
• Leading facilitator of cargo trade from Hawaii
• International trading partners are located in China, Japan, Taiwan, Thailand, and Vietnam.

4. Port of Savannah (Georgia)

The Port of Savannah, Georgia, is one of the top port sites in the U.S., offering nearly 10,000 feet of adjoining berth space. This port is the fastest by rail to Birmingham, Charlotte, Atlanta, Orlando, and Memphis.

• 2021 container volume: 5.6 million TEUs
• Handles retail shipments, cars and machinery, refrigerated cargo, bulk, and breakbulk cargo
• Fastest-growing port in the U.S. from 2000-2005

3. Port of New York and New Jersey (New York)

This seaport is the largest port on the eastern seaboard and the third busiest port in the nation. The New York and New Jersey port district covers approximately 1,500 square miles and serves the world’s leading ocean carriers.

• 2021 container volume: 8.98 million TEUs
• Six container terminals with the ability to handle nine 14,000 TEU ships simultaneously
• The primary location of embarkation for U.S. military troops and supplies sent to Europe in World War I

2. Port of Long Beach (California)

The Port of Long Beach, California, is the second-busiest seaport in the nation and the primary U.S. gateway for trans-Pacific trade. There are $2 billion in port improvements planned over the next decade, with more than $1 billion for rail upgrades and expansion.

• 2021 container volume: 9.38 million TEUs
• 80 berths and six container terminals
• Supports around 2.6 million jobs across the country

1. Port of Los Angeles (California)

The Port of Los Angeles is the busiest seaport in the United States and has held this title for nearly two decades. The Los Angeles Harbor Department, a part of the City of Los Angeles, manages it. This impressive port has 25 cargo terminals, 82 container cranes, and eight terminals.

• 2021 container volume: 10.7 million TEUs
• occupies 7,500 acres of water and land
• Approximately 20% of cargo coming into the U.S. comes through this port

Final Thoughts

Schumacher Cargo Logistics offers unique solutions to fit your shipping needs, whether you need to ship your vehicle, boat, or household goods. If you have questions or need more information, please get in touch with us at (800) 599-0190 or fill out our online quote form.

Who hasn’t dreamed at some point of what it might be like to “accidentally” miss their flight home from France and just spend the rest of their days strolling around the City of Light while eating baguettes and brushing up on their high school French?

I mean, I don’t blame you if you’ve considered it.

Paris continues to be high on travelers’ bucket lists year after year, and for good reason.

But Paris isn’t all that France has to offer, and if you’ve been considering moving there, you know that as well.

From the French Riviera in the summertime, to the Alsace region at Christmastime (hello, cutest Christmas markets I’ve ever seen in my entire life), and everywhere in between, France has no shortage of picturesque villages and medieval towns, gorgeous countrysides, stunning beaches and unique historical sites to keep you mesmerized for years to come.

If you are thinking about moving to France, je vous félicite! I won’t try to hide my jealousy. France is a country that has charmed me every single time I have visited, and it continues to charm its millions of visitors each year. In fact, France still maintains its top-of-the-list ranking when it comes to the most visited countries in the world.

But visiting a country and moving to a country are two very different things. Moving to a country requires a bit more pre-planning than just jumping on a plane for a Parisian holiday.

Are you ready for the big leap across the pond?

Let’s look at a few different factors to consider before you pack your bags and hop on a plane.

You will need a visa to move to France

What kind of visa you will need depends on how long you are planning to stay and what you are planning to do there.

In most cases, however, you will need a long stay visa. This visa allows you to stay in the country for one year, after which time you will need to apply for French residency if you wish to stay longer.

The list of documents needed for French residency includes important papers such as your original birth certificate and if married with kids, your marriage license and birth certificates for your children. All of these documents will require a translation into French, if they are not already in French, and the full list of required documents can be found here.

Cost of living in France

If you have been researching a move to France, you might have already come across the happy fact that the cost of living in France is approximately 20-30% lower than the cost of living in the US. Yay! More money for croissants!

While transportation costs are roughly the same as in the US, and eating out in restaurants is slightly higher in France, groceries tend to fluctuate depending on which items you are looking at. A steak might cost you significantly more in France, while certain fruits such as apples or oranges might cost a lot less. And virtually everything else such as cell phone bills and rent comes in at a lower price point.

A lot of the cost of living depends on the exchange rate at the moment, and as of this writing, the Euro and the Dollar are almost one for one, which is good if you are bringing a US salary with you.

It is also worth noting that the quality of life ranking is virtually the same for both countries.

What to see and do in France

We could write an entire book about what there is to see and do in France. France is definitely not an off the beaten path destination and there is no shortage of things to see, do and eat when living in France.

1. Certainly one must ski the famous French Alps in the winter and sunbathe the summer days away along the sundrenched Riviera.
2. At Christmastime you must absolutely check out the Christmas markets in the tiny medieval villages of Riquewihr and Colmar.
3. Of course if you are a Count of Monte Cristo fan, you should visit Marseille at some point to sail over to Château d’If.
4. And it goes without saying that you should take advantage of France’s foodie reputation and head over to Lyon, often called the gastronomic capital of the world.

We are confident that France will not disappoint you and you will find more than enough to do to keep you entertained for the duration of your time there!

How to safely move your belongings to France from USA


When it comes time to move your household goods, your car, and whatever else you are planning to take to France, we are here for you. Check out our moving services here, get an online quote here, and let us do the rest.

For over 40 years we have provided premier worldwide moving services and when it comes to your valuable belongings, you want to know that you are in good hands. Knowing your possessions are being expertly moved to your new home takes one worry off your plate and lets you focus on all the other fun stuff.

Moving to France will be the adventure of a lifetime! You certainly don’t want it to start out as a misadventure. So leave the heavy lifting to the pros and watch us get to work.

Because the Czech Republic is a modernized country with high living standards and an enhanced economy, thousands of people immigrate there yearly. If you are considering moving to this beautifully hilly country – the 7th safest country in the world – you should know a few things first. With the following information, you’ll be ready to pack your bags in no time!

The Cost of Living in Czechia

Did you know the cost of living in the Czech Republic is about 46% less than in the United States?

Renting a one-bedroom city apartment will cost about $670, while a similar apartment will run approximately $1,600 in the US. For a three-bedroom city apartment, you will pay about $1,070 monthly. If you live outside city limits, your rental costs should be less.

While the overall cost of living is lower in Czechia, utilities typically cost about 25% more than in the United States. Gasoline is more expensive too, coming in at about 49% higher.

Here are a few more cost comparisons (the Czech Republic vs. the United States):

• Restaurant prices are 49% lower
• Groceries are 46% lower
• Movie tickets are 32% lower
• Childcare is 62% lower
• A pair of jeans is 75% higher

While you will pay less for most items in the Czech Republic, you will probably also earn less – the average monthly net salary is 62% lower than in the United States.

What is Needed to Move to the Czech Republic from the US?

Passport

When you are preparing to move to the Czech Republic, the first thing you will need is a passport. This official document is essential and allows you to travel to and from foreign countries. As you plan your relocation, check your passport’s expiration date to ensure it is current.

Making Plans for Your Upcoming Move

Moving to an international country can sometimes feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to. One way to remove unnecessary stress is by hiring a trustworthy transport company like Schumacher Cargo Logistics.

Cargo ships transport about 80% of the world’s goods, so shipping by sea is a tried-and-true method. Your treasured heirlooms, household items, and vehicles will be in good hands when shipped across the ocean.

When you are packed and ready to go, your transport company will pick up your items and wrap them safely in preparation for the journey. After transportation, your shipment will pass through Czech Republic customs, and then it will be delivered to your new home. It’s that easy!

Entering the Czech Republic

You must register your address at a Ministry of Interior Office or the Foreign Police Department within three days of arriving in the country. United States citizens can stay in Czechia for up to 90 days without a visa; however, if you are moving to the country, you will need to obtain a visa or residence permit.

If you plan to live in the Czech Republic for less than one year, you should apply for a long-term visa. After you complete your application, you may be invited for an interview.

When you apply for your visa, be prepared to provide a few things:

• Current passport (travel document)
• Recent photograph
• Proof of accommodation in Czechia
• Document confirming purpose of the stay
• Proof of adequate funds
• Possible background check

You should submit only original documents or certified copies. Typically, applicants are notified via email when the visa is approved. Once approved, you must provide proof of travel health insurance.

If you plan to live in the Czech Republic for longer than one year, you will need a long-term residence permit. When applying, you will submit the same documents that are requested for long-term visas.

Quick note: Permanent residence permits are reserved for those who have lived in the country for more than five years and can pass a Czech language test. Additionally, if you decide to apply for citizenship, you must reside in Czechia for at least five years, pass a Czech language test, and pass a history/culture test.

Fascinating Local Culture in the Czech Republic

The Czech Republic is rich in culture, traditions, principles, and history.

Czechs value family ahead of work, and employers are usually sensitive to family needs. In Czechia, you will see many traditional families where the mother stays home, and the father works.

Families enjoy taking vacations together: National parks and Mediterranean beaches are popular destinations. Outdoor activities such as biking, gardening, and skiing are popular.

Most Czechs are conservative, resourceful, and frugal. However, they enjoy their beer – the Czech Republic ranks the highest in beer consumption in the world! It is not usual for Czechs to have a beer in the morning and wine in the evening.

You will find many churches in Prague, but most citizens are not religious. They are, however, mannerly and teach their children to be well-behaved.

Here are five more remarkable facts about the Czech Republic:

1. Many Czechs love to hunt mushrooms in the fall; sometimes, these hunts can be competitive.
2. The country’s unemployment rate is the lowest in Europe.
3. Ice hockey is the most popular sport – the men’s national team is a worldwide powerhouse.
4. Czechia has the most castles in Europe.
5. Mission Impossible, Yentl, The Illusionist, Les Misérables, and Casino Royale were filmed in Prague, the country’s capital.

Congrats! I can say definitively that you have picked a great new home. New Zealand is one of those countries that will astound you in ways you didn’t even know were possible. If outdoor sports and activities are your cup of tea then you will feel right at home in this land of extreme adventures. If soaking up natural beauty and culture is what floats your boat, then you will be a happy sailor.

Whether you are checking out the culture in windy Wellington or cruising the fjords of Milford Sound, New Zealand will keep you entertained all day long.

Moving to a new country can sometimes be stressful if you aren’t prepared, but you are in the right place! In this guide we will walk you through some of the things you will need to know in order to have as smooth a transition as possible.

Often when people move to a new country they have questions surrounding such areas as:

• What visa do I need to apply for?
• What is the cost of living in New Zealand?
• What are the best things to see and do in New Zealand?
• How do I move my belongings to New Zealand?

New Zealand visa options

If you are considering moving to New Zealand, the first decision you need to make is what type of visa you will apply for.

If you want to only live there for a year so that you can travel around the country and stay longer than the 90 day tourist visa allows, consider applying for a Working Holiday visa. There are age limits for this visa, with the maximum age for application being 35, but it’s a great option for those who just want to make a temporary move or who want to see what it’s like to live there before making a more permanent move. This is also the cheapest visa option.

If you’ve been offered a job in New Zealand, you will need an Essential Workers visa, which allows you to live and work there for up to 5 years. There is no age limit on this visa.

A Work to Residence visa allows you the opportunity to live and work in New Zealand with the ability to apply for residency if you continue to work for your employer for at least two years. These visas are offered to people who are skilled workers in certain fields or who have been offered a job with an accredited employer. The age limit for this visa is 55 years.

Another visa option is the Skilled Migrant visa. This is a visa that will let you stay in New Zealand indefinitely if you have been offered a job and you have the skills, qualifications, and experience that New Zealand is looking for. The upper age limit on this one is 55 as well.

There are other visas worth looking into as well, such as: an investment visa, a student visa, or a business visa.

You can find out more about how to apply for a New Zealand work visa here.

The cost of living in New Zealand

New Zealand is an incredible place to live, work, and travel, but it is also one of the most expensive countries in the world to live in. Jaw-dropping beauty and incredible outdoor adventure opportunities don’t come cheap and while living in New Zealand is absolutely worth it, the cost of living is definitely something you will want to make sure you’ve adequately budgeted for.

Expatistan lists the overall average cost of living for a single person in NZ at NZ$4212 a month. With the current exchange rate, that equals $2659 USD.

The estimate for a family of four is NZ$7699. The USD equivalent as of this writing is $4860 USD.

Sample New Zealand costs

• Combo meal in a fast food restaurant: NZ$13
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast: NZ$7
• Rent for a 900 sqft furnished apartment in an average neighborhood: NZ$2,681
  (Something to keep in mind about rent in New Zealand is that rent is usually charged weekly, not monthly.)
• Utilities for one person in a studio apartment: NZ $240

While living costs can be high, we think that you will find New Zealand to be more than worth it. And once you start exploring all that these stunning islands have to offer, you won’t look back.

The best things to see and do in New Zealand

New Zealand has rightfully earned its reputation as the ultimate outdoor playground and that will be readily apparent when you arrive in the country. With glaciers to climb, glowworm caves to blackwater raft through, jet boats to ride (which were developed in New Zealand) and of course Hobbiton to wander through while letting your imagination also wander…there is no shortage of incredible places to visit in New Zealand. A few of our favorite places are listed below.

Here are some must-see places in New Zealand

• Waitomo Glowworm Caves — rafting through the caves and admiring the glowing worms that look like twinkling stars against a night sky will be one of the most awe-inspiring things you’ve ever done. We highly recommend this unique experience.
• Milford Sound — cruising the fjords here will leave you breathless. There’s a reason why it’s so high on every visitor’s list.
• Fox Glacier — located on the West Coast of the South Island of New Zealand is a glacier that can be visited via a number of different ways. You can take a free walk to near the base of the glacier. You can go on a paid, guided tour. You can take a scenic helicopter ride over the glacier, or you can even opt to land on the glacier. Franz Joseph Glacier is also in the area. Be sure to read up on both glaciers, as well as weather conditions before visiting either one.
• Wai-O-Tapu — while the area might not smell the best, it’s an incredibly fascinating place where you can see geothermal activity happening all around town. It’s not uncommon to see steam rising from the streets or even from people’s backyards. Geysers and mud pools abound. Locals might even be willing to share with you the best free places to visit natural hot springs. Just don’t enter any springs or pools on your own without knowing that they are safe. People have been scalded to death in New Zealand by accidentally entering hot pools that were boiling at extreme temperatures.
• Hobbiton — even if you haven’t seen the Lord of the Rings, you will still enjoy taking a tour of this retired movie set. It’s also a great place to snap selfies with hobbit holes!

We could turn this post into an entire travel guide if we listed all of the fabulous places that New Zealand boasts, but this list will get you started as you compile your own bucket list of New Zealand experiences.

The best way to move your belongings to New Zealand

When you are ready to move, you want to know that your possessions will be treated carefully as you send them into the unknown on their journey to their new home.

We at Schumacher Cargo Logistics understand this and we are here to help! With over 40 years of experience, we are experts at getting your goods safely to your new home. From vehicles to your entire household, we can ship your belongings door to door from the US to anywhere in New Zealand. Your peace of mind is essential when it comes to such a big move, and we are here to make the entire process easy as pie. Contact us today to find out how we can help you or fill out our online form to get a free quote.

Are you considering moving to Germany soon? Germany is truly a unique yet exhilarating place to live, known for over 300 styles of bread, breathtaking castles and cathedrals, thrilling festivals, Christmas traditions, and more.

Check out this helpful guide, which includes information about Germany’s cost of living, the ins and outs of moving, and what to expect once you arrive. This knowledge should leave you confident and excited about your upcoming move!

The Cost of Living in Germany

There is good news if you are moving to Germany from the US! Germany’s overall cost of living is approximately 23% lower than the United States.

Often, people are most curious about the cost of rent and utilities when considering a move. While housing costs vary depending on location, you can expect to pay $650-$950 for a one-bedroom apartment in Germany, which is approximately 45% lower than in the US. Utilities for the same apartment should be around $250 per month. You can expect to pay more if you rent or buy a larger home.

Gasoline is quite spendy in Germany, coming in at over $8 per gallon. However, a three-course restaurant meal is typically about 20% cheaper in Germany than in the United States. You can expect to save money when you visit the market for groceries – a one-pound bag of rice and one pound of oranges cost only about $1 each.

You will, however, pay more for clothing: A pair of jeans costs about 80% more in Germany than in the US. But no worries – you can make up for this extra expense in childcare, as it usually runs about 67% cheaper than in the United States.

Mortgage interest rates are much better in Germany, averaging less than 2%. It is important to note that you may not earn as much money in Germany – salaries are about 21% less than in the US.

What is Needed to Move to Germany from the US?

Passport

First, you will need a passport as you prepare to fly to Germany, which is standard for all international travel. Make sure you apply for your passport well ahead of time and check its expiration date.

Make Plans for Moving
As your move grows closer, you will need to plan to have your household items and vehicles shipped to your new home. Shipping across the ocean is an economical choice, as air freight is typically 12-16 times more expensive than sea transport.

There are many things to consider when moving to Germany, including packing and wrapping, enclosed storage, customs clearance, pickup and delivery, and more. That’s why using a reputable transport company, such as Schumacher Cargo Logistics, is essential.

Legal Entry Into Germany
You are not required to have a visa to enter Germany from the US. If you plan to stay in the country longer than 90 days, you WILL need a Residence Permit, which requires a passport. When applying for this permit, you must state why you want to move to Germany. Valid reasons include employment, education, and family reunions.
You will need a few things when preparing to apply for your Residence Permit:

• Completed application (two if you are applying while still in the US)
• Legal Passport
• Two photos that meet the country’s photo requirements
• Confirmation that your new address is legally registered
• Financial proof (bank statements, tax documents) that you can provide for yourself
• Letter from employer proving you have a job or offer of employment
• Proof that you have valid health insurance coverage
• Receipts for required fees
• Any other documents that are requested

After five years of residing in Germany, you can apply for a Permanent Residence Visa.

Interesting Local Culture in Germany

“Germany has become a country that many people abroad associate with hope.” – Angela Merkel

Germany, known for its beautifully rich history, is the 7th happiest country in the world… and it’s easy to see why! Within the borders of this forested, hilly country, you’ll find a wide range of fascinating customs, religions, and traditions.

One thing that the German people are known for is their regard for time and punctuality. Typically, they respect structure and privacy, and they value their family and community. In Germany, you will find a large population of writers, intellectuals, and business people who, for the most part, are logical and reasonable.

You’ll quickly notice that Germany is known for its high-quality beer – there are over 7,000 varieties of brew in Germany! They also love delicious, hearty food, including sausage, bread, cabbage, and potatoes.

Traditions of many famous German composers, including Johann Sebastian Bach and Ludwig van Beethoven, can be seen throughout the country today. German Oom-Pah tunes are popular as well, which is a folky, brass band type of music. Additionally, you will notice exquisite architecture throughout the country, from Gothic to Baroque to Renaissance.

Many traditional Christian holidays are observed in Germany, like Christmas and Easter. Another German “holiday” known worldwide is Oktoberfest, which is a 16-18-day-long beer festival that first began in 1810.

One thing is for sure… Germany is undoubtedly bursting with a robust, local culture unlike any other in the world!