International container transport and logistics service provider, Orient Overseas Container Line (OOCL), has confirmed it will be moving into Liverpool2, the Port of Liverpool’s deep-water container terminal, in the first step to accommodate a new Panamax Vessel, the OOCL St Lawrence for the Europe–Canada trade. 

OOCL St Lawrence, which is 294 m long and has a capacity of 5,024 TEUs, will replace OOCL Belgium, which is 245 m long and has a capacity of 2,992 TEUs, is due to arrive on 29 September. The company confirmed that Liverpool2 will be a permanent call, as part of a rotation including Montreal, Bremerhaven, Antwerp and Le Havre, citing its ability to support the company’s strategic plan for future growth, as one of Europe’s most advanced container terminals.

As one of the world’s most operationally efficient and modern shipping terminals, Liverpool2 is capable of accommodating the world's largest container vessels, future-proofing the facility to allow global shippers such as OOCL, 'ship-to-door' access to major import and centres at the heart of the UK.

Terry Brant, General Manager Operations, OOCL said: “OOCL has worked closely with Peel Ports over the past 40 years, and see this new move as a key enabler to help strengthen our overall position in the market. In doing so, it will enable OOCL to continue to play an influential role in offering more competitive and best-in-class services to our customers.”

David Huck, Managing Director, Peel Ports said: “As a valued partner of over 10 years, we are delighted to be able to accommodate OOCL’s new and growing requirements. We’ve seen how ports are key enablers of the UK’s supply chain and despite the recent challenges facing the economy, we’ve forged ahead with our programme of diversification and growth across the business through investments in infrastructure and technologies, and by strengthening relationships with existing customers like OOCL.”

Peel Ports and TiL’s joint venture which includes the multi-million pound expansion at Liverpool2, will increase capacities and support increased demand for container imports, allowing it to increase its share of the container market by 15 – 20% in Liverpool by 2025.

The terminal is capable of handling up to two 13,500TEU vessels simultaneously and eliminates up to 200 miles of road or rail transport per container journey. It provides the quickest and cheapest route to major markets and is the best connected container terminal in the country, with ten motorways located within ten miles.