Key hubs for European supply chains

Major ports in the Netherlands play a central role in the European and global logistics landscape.

Strategically located at the heart of Europe and at the mouths of the Rhine, Maas, and Scheldt rivers, Dutch sea and inland ports handle vast volumes of goods, making them critical to supply chains across the continent.

Smartest port in the world

# 1 port in Europe

13 sea ports

World-class sea ports

Backed by an excellent infrastructure, efficient multimodal connections, and proximity to key European markets, the ports of the Netherlands offer a world-class maritime ecosystem that helps businesses thrive and expand into Europe.

Whether you’re importing raw materials, distributing finished products, or innovating in the circular economy and offshore energy, the Netherlands offers the right environment to grow your business.

From the biggest port in Europe to regional hubs with specialized expertise, the Netherlands is home to 13 seaports that provide seamless access to European and international markets. These ports are more than logistics hubs—they are centers of innovation, sustainability, and economic growth.

Port of Rotterdam: Europe’s largest seaport

The Port of Rotterdam is not only the largest port in Europe, it’s also the smartest. Known for its state-of-the-art facilities, deep-water access, and advanced digital infrastructure, it handles a diverse range of cargo, including crude oil, containers, and chemicals.

With a port area stretching 42 km and accommodating around 28,000 sea-going and 91,000 inland vessels annually, Rotterdam offers unmatched capacity and connectivity. Its focus on innovation, energy transition, and smart logistics makes it a global leader in maritime operations. The port’s vast storage facilities, state-of-the-art terminals, and efficient inland shipping and rail connections enhance its status as a crucial link in European and global supply chains.

Key facts:

Total cargo throughput: 436 million tonnes a year
Port area: 12,500 ha of land and water, of which over 6,000 ha is industrial sites
Employment: ~192,000 jobs
Leading in crude oil, containers, chemicals

More about Port of Rotterdam

Other key seaports in the Netherlands

Port of Amsterdam: Driving sustainable value

The Port of Amsterdam is one of the world’s largest ports for chemical goods and a frontrunner in the circular economy. It actively supports startups and sustainable initiatives in recycling and industrial reuse.

As the port celebrated its 750th anniversary in 2024, it reinforced its identity as a modern, forward-thinking logistics hub. It continues to grow in building materials and agri-bulk, while enabling more space for water-based activities.

Total cargo throughput (2024): 62.2 million tonnes
Focus: Circular economy, chemicals, agri and construction products

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Groningen Seaports: The energy port of Northwest Europe

Comprising the ports of Delfzijl and Eemshaven, Groningen Seaports is a center of clustered industry and innovation. Eemshaven, in particular, is a fast-developing hub for offshore wind and other energy-related sectors.

With an emphasis on bio-based chemistry and circular production, this region positions itself as a future-forward port complex built on sustainability and industrial partnerships.

Port area: 2,779 ha (incl. industrial zones)
Total throughput: 14 million tonnes
Specializations: Energy, chemicals, circular industry

More over Groningen Seaports

North Sea Port: A multimodal cross-border powerhouse

Spanning from Vlissingen (NL) to Ghent (BE), North Sea Port is a 60 km-long multimodal seaport with strong inland shipping capabilities. It ranks No. 7 in Europe for seaborne cargo volume and No. 3 in added value.

Its cross-border model and sustainable vision make it ideal for companies seeking flexible access to European markets.

Sea cargo: 66.3 million tonnes
Inland cargo: 64.2 million tonnes
Strengths: Multimodal transport, cross-border connectivity

Move over North Sea Port

Inland ports: Extending maritime reach

With over 40 recognized inland ports, the Netherlands has one of the densest and most integrated inland waterway networks in the world. More than 40% of domestic freight moves by water, thanks to high-capacity barge services and excellent intermodal links.

These ports function as satellites of major seaports, handling customs clearance, consolidation, and last-mile delivery. Many are key nodes in the TEN-T Rhine-Alpine Corridor, connecting Rotterdam and Amsterdam to Germany, Switzerland, and Italy.

Notable inland ports include: