VOC Port Offers 10-Day Free Storage to Bolster Container Traffic

Thoothukudi: The V.O. Chidambaranar Port Authority (VOCPA) has introduced a 10-day free storage facility for laden export-import (Exim) containers handled through mainline vessel services and earmarked 40,000 sq-m of additional space for container storage and stacking to facilitate and promote container traffic through the port.

Of the additional space, 20,000 sq-m has been earmarked at the seventh berth and another 20,000 sq-m near the tenth berth. The space will cater to the storage and stacking requirements of containers arriving at the port through mainline vessel services, according to a statement issued on Friday by the VOCPA.

Under the new provision, eligible laden Exim containers handled through mainline vessels will be allowed free storage for 10 days. From the eleventh day onwards the storage charges will be levied as per the prevailing scale of rates of the port.

The facility will be available to mainline vessel operators, terminal operators, major industries, freight forwarders, customs brokers, non-vessel operating common carrier (NVOCC) operators and other eligible stakeholders, subject to port regulations, space availability and operational convenience.

The concession is applicable only to mainline vessel services covered under Schemes 1, 2 and 2A specified in the port's trade notice dated May 6, 2026. The facility came into effect immediately and will remain valid till March 31, 2027.

The port administration said the additional stacking space, coupled with the extended free-storage period, was aimed at making container handling through mainline services more convenient for shipping lines, industries and logistics intermediaries and encouraging greater Exim container traffic through the port.

Trade stakeholders have been advised to refer to the port's trade notice dated September 23, 2026, for detailed applicability and conditions.