This statistical release provides information on trends and patterns in the handling of freight traffic at UK sea ports, in terms of cargo as well as the route taken. Port freight statistics are based on a combination of data reported to the DfT by port authorities and shipping lines, or their agents.

Ports are split into major and minor ports. There are 51 major ports which are strategically important, which handles at least 1 million tonnes of cargo annually. The majority of this publication covers major port data, as more detail is collected from these ports, such as cargo category and route taken.

Cargo is categorised based on the means by which goods are loaded onto or off the vessel.