Port Guide · Asia — North

Bunkering at Shanghai

Shanghai is the world's largest container port and a growing bunker hub, supplying an estimated 3-4 million tonnes annually. Like Zhoushan, bonded bunkering is enabled under China's free trade zone policies. Shanghai is distinguished by the integration of bunker operations with one of the planet's most sophisticated container terminal complexes.

Key Port Facts

UN/LOCODE
CNSHA
Coordinates
31.23°N, 121.47°E
Timezone
UTC+8
Volume
~3-4 million tonnes (estimated, growing)
Global Rank
#6
Port Authority

Shanghai Municipal Transport Commission / Shanghai Maritime Safety Administration

Fuel Grades Available at Shanghai

Seven Ocean procures the following marine fuel grades at Shanghai. Click any grade for full technical specifications.

Delivery Methods

Primary Anchorages

Yangshan anchorage, Waigaoqiao, various designated points

Port Detail

Yangshan Deep Water Port

The Yangshan terminals, connected to mainland Shanghai by the Donghai Bridge, handle the largest container vessels afloat. Bunker services serve both the mega-box vessels calling Yangshan and the feeder traffic moving inland via the Yangtze estuary.

Regulatory environment

Shanghai is inside China's Domestic Emission Control Area, meaning vessels within 12 nautical miles must burn fuel with ≤0.10% sulphur content while at berth. LSMGO and VLSFO are accordingly the dominant products. HSFO for scrubber vessels is available.

Commercial structure

The major state-owned suppliers dominate, with Chimbusco and Sinopec Zhejiang holding significant share. Independent suppliers also operate. Nomination is typically 3-5 days for new accounts.

Operational notes

The Yangtze estuary can have strong tidal streams affecting barge manoeuvring. Winter can bring fog that delays operations. Typhoons in summer occasionally affect schedules.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can large container vessels take bunkers while working at Yangshan?

Yes, simultaneous cargo operations and bunkering (SIMOPS) are possible at Yangshan terminals subject to terminal approval. This is one of the attractions for the largest box vessels.

Is Shanghai in the China DECA?

Yes, the entire port area is within the Domestic Emission Control Area, requiring ≤0.10% sulphur fuel while berthed. LSMGO consumption at berth is accordingly high.

Does Shanghai offer LNG bunkering?

Yes, LNG bunkering capability exists, though the scale remains below Singapore or Rotterdam. Availability is growing as Chinese carriers commission more LNG dual-fuel tonnage.

Need a bunker quote?

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