Kandla Container Terminal sets record with 7,799 TEU parcel handling

In a significant development for India’s maritime sector, Kandla Container Terminal has achieved a historic operational milestone. On 8th April 2026, the terminal successfully handled its largest-ever parcel size during the call of the vessel MV ZHONG GU YIN CHUAN. The container ship sailed following a highly efficient exchange of 7,799 TEUs (Twenty-foot Equivalent Units), setting a new benchmark for the facility's capacity and throughput capabilities.

This achievement represents a substantial leap forward in the terminal’s growth trajectory. It surpasses the previous record of 6,011 TEUs set in January 2025 by the vessel MV ZHONG GU LAN ZHOU. The jump of nearly 1,800 TEUs in a single vessel call underscores the rapid scaling of operations and the optimisation of infrastructure at the terminal, which is operated under the Deendayal Port Authority.

The successful handling of such a massive parcel size was made possible through seamless coordination and the collective efforts of the terminal’s workforce and various stakeholders. The management extended its sincere appreciation to Sealead, the shipping line partner, for its continued trust and collaboration. This milestone is a testament to the terminal’s ability to manage high-volume exchanges with precision, ensuring that turnaround times remain competitive even as vessel sizes and cargo loads increase.

The operational success of the MV ZHONG GU YIN CHUAN call reflects a wider commitment to excellence within the J M Baxi Group, which manages the terminal's activities. By focusing on advanced berth productivity and streamlined gate operations, the terminal has been able to offer a reliable and stable gateway for EXIM (Export-Import) cargo.

At a broader level, this achievement highlights the pivotal role of Kandla in India’s logistics landscape. Operating under the aegis of the Deendayal Port Authority (DPA), the terminal is increasingly becoming a preferred destination for major shipping lines amidst evolving global trade dynamics. As trade patterns shift and international supply chains face various pressures, the ability of a terminal to handle nearly 8,000 TEUs in a single call provides much-needed continuity and stability for the trade community.

The milestone arrives shortly after the Deendayal Port Authority celebrated crossing the 160 million metric tonnes (MMT) mark in total cargo handling for the financial year. This specific record at the container terminal further cements Kandla's status as a leading maritime hub capable of supporting the growing demands of the North Indian hinterland and the global shipping industry.