If you import containers through South Florida, you've probably asked this question: should I bring my cargo through Port Miami or Port Everglades? Both ports serve the Miami area, but they're not the same. Location, congestion, gate hours, and drayage costs differ — and picking the wrong terminal can cost you time and money.

Here's what you need to know.

Port Miami (PortMiami)

Location Downtown Miami, on Biscayne Bay, right in the heart of the metro area.

What it handles General cargo, breakbulk, containers, and break-bulk. PortMiami is South Florida's main container port — it moves roughly 6 million containers per year.

Drayage distance Closest to downtown Miami, Doral warehouses, and Miami Beach. Shortest haul for cargo heading into the urban core.

Gate hours Extended hours (usually 7 AM – 8 PM weekdays, limited weekend hours). Night gates available with premium fees.

Congestion Can be congested during peak season (especially spring). Trucking traffic is dense — expect slower gate cycles during rush hours.

Terminal characteristics Older, tighter layout. Less modern equipment than Everglades, but also more direct access to downtown and industrial areas.