VOC Port now offers 24/7 direct port entry for factory-stuffed, e-sealed exports.

V O Chidambaranar Port Authority has launched a Direct Port Entry (DPE) facility at its Thoothukudi port in Tamil Nadu for factory-stuffed, e-sealed export containers. The 24×7 service eliminates the need for clearance at nearby Container Freight Stations, allowing containers to move straight to the terminal—cutting delays, lowering costs, and boosting export efficiency.

Under this new system, customs brokers will be charged Rs 135 plus GST for 20-ft containers and Rs 162 plus GST for containers over 20 ft, as announced in a trade notice dated April 10.

In FY25, VOC Port handled 7.95 lakh TEUs, marking a 6.4% rise from last year’s 7.47 lakh TEUs. The port, with a 1.35 million TEU capacity, operates two terminals via Dakshin Bharat Gateway Terminal and Tuticorin International Container Terminal 

This move, aligned with the Direct Port Delivery (DPD) initiative, is expected to significantly reduce cargo dwell time and enhance port performance.

Source: Maritimegateway