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Bayport Container Terminal: Houston Port Tracking, Gate Hours & FIRMS Code

Written by Bella Johnson | Jan 31, 2026 8:00:00 AM

What is Bayport Container Terminal?

Bayport Container Terminal is the newest and largest container facility at the Port of Houston, located in Seabrook, Texas. Opened in 2007, Bayport handles approximately 70% of all containerized cargo moving through the Houston Ship Channel, making it the primary gateway for Gulf Coast import and export operations.

The terminal spans over 1,000 acres and features state-of-the-art infrastructure including ship-to-shore cranes capable of handling the largest container vessels calling on the U.S. Gulf Coast.

Why Bayport Matters for Freight Forwarders

For freight forwarders operating in the Gulf region, Bayport Container Terminal is unavoidable. Whether you’re moving automotive parts from Mexico, petrochemical equipment to South America, or consumer goods from Asia, Bayport is likely your primary port of call.

Understanding Bayport’s operations—gate hours, container tracking systems, and shipping line schedules—directly impacts your ability to: - Minimize demurrage and detention charges - Provide accurate ETAs to customers - Coordinate trucking and drayage efficiently

With Houston’s strategic position serving the energy sector and manufacturing hubs across Texas and the Midwest, mastering Bayport operations is essential for any forwarder serving these markets.

Bayport Container Terminal Key Facts

Attribute Details
Location 10800 Bay Area Blvd, Seabrook, TX 77586
Operator Port Houston
FIRMS Code G431
Opened 2007
Size 1,000+ acres
Berths 5 container berths
Cranes 26 ship-to-shore gantry cranes
Annual TEU Capacity 2.3 million TEUs
Rail Service On-dock rail served by BNSF and Union Pacific

Major Shipping Lines at Bayport

  • MSC (Mediterranean Shipping Company)
  • Hapag-Lloyd
  • CMA CGM
  • ONE (Ocean Network Express)
  • Evergreen
  • Yang Ming
  • COSCO
  • ZIM

How to Track Containers at Bayport Container Terminal

Tracking your containers at Bayport involves using Port Houston’s online tracking system. Here’s how:

Step 1: Access the Port Houston Tracking Portal

Visit porthouston.com and navigate to the “Track & Trace” section.

Step 2: Enter Container Information

You’ll need one of the following: - Container number (e.g., MSCU1234567) - Bill of Lading (BL) number - Booking reference

Step 3: Review Container Status

The system displays: - Current location (vessel, yard, gate) - Last Free Day (LFD) - Holds or customs clearance status - Available for pickup status

Required Information for Tracking

  • Container number (11 characters)
  • Shipping line/carrier code
  • Import vs. export designation

Bayport Terminal Gate Hours

Day Gate Hours
Monday - Friday 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday 7:00 AM - 12:00 PM (limited)
Sunday Closed

Note: Extended gate hours may be available during peak seasons. Always verify current hours on the Port Houston website before dispatching trucks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Bayport Container Terminal located?

Bayport Container Terminal is located at 10800 Bay Area Blvd in Seabrook, Texas, approximately 25 miles southeast of downtown Houston along the Houston Ship Channel.

What shipping lines use Bayport Container Terminal?

Major carriers including MSC, Hapag-Lloyd, CMA CGM, ONE, Evergreen, Yang Ming, COSCO, and ZIM operate regular services through Bayport. The terminal handles vessels from virtually all major global shipping alliances.

How do I track a container at Bayport?

Use Port Houston’s online Track & Trace portal at porthouston.com. Enter your container number, bill of lading, or booking reference to view real-time status including location, holds, and Last Free Day.

What is the FIRMS code for Bayport Container Terminal?

The FIRMS code for Bayport Container Terminal is G431. This code is required for customs clearance documentation and trucking appointments.

What are Bayport Container Terminal gate hours?

Standard gate hours are Monday-Friday 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM, with limited Saturday hours from 7:00 AM - 12:00 PM. The terminal is closed on Sundays.

Does Bayport have on-dock rail service?

Yes, Bayport offers on-dock intermodal rail service with connections to both BNSF and Union Pacific railroads, enabling efficient rail transport to inland destinations across the U.S.

What is the difference between Bayport and Barbours Cut Terminal?

Both terminals are operated by Port Houston. Bayport is the newer, larger facility handling the majority of container traffic, while Barbours Cut Terminal is an older facility that handles overflow and certain carrier services.

Streamline Bayport Operations with GoFreight

Managing container tracking across multiple terminals and carriers is time-consuming. GoFreight’s automated tracking pulls real-time container status from Bayport and other major terminals directly into your TMS—no more logging into multiple portals or chasing status updates.

From vessel arrival alerts to Last Free Day notifications, GoFreight helps you stay ahead of demurrage charges and keep customers informed automatically.

[See How GoFreight Automates Terminal Tracking →]