Question 1

What is a UN/LOCODE?

Accepted Answer

UN/LOCODE (United Nations Code for Trade and Transport Locations) is a geographic coding system maintained by UNECE. Each code is five characters — a two-letter country code followed by a three-character location identifier. For example, AUSYD represents Sydney, Australia. The system covers ports, airports, inland terminals, and other locations relevant to international trade.

Question 2

Why do some ports have multiple UN/LOCODEs?

Accepted Answer

Large port complexes often have separate codes for individual terminals or berths. For example, Los Angeles (USLAX) and Long Beach (USLGB) are adjacent but distinct ports with their own codes. Similarly, some inland terminals near a major port have their own codes for customs clearance purposes. When referencing a port on shipping documents, always use the specific terminal code rather than the general city code.

Question 3

What is a port's function code?

Accepted Answer

The UN/LOCODE function code is an 8-character classifier where each position indicates a specific function: position 1 = port (maritime), 2 = rail terminal, 3 = road terminal, 4 = airport, 5 = postal exchange, 6 = inland clearance depot, 7 = fixed transport (pipelines), 8 = border crossing. A dash (-) means the function does not apply, a number means it does.

Question 4

What is the difference between a port code and a terminal code?

Accepted Answer

A port code identifies the general port area (e.g. AUSYD for Sydney), while terminal codes identify specific facilities within that port — such as container terminals, bulk cargo wharves, or cruise terminals. Bills of lading typically reference the port code, but carrier schedules and vessel tracking often use terminal-specific identifiers. When lodging customs declarations in Australia, you need the UN/LOCODE for the port of loading and discharge.

Question 5

Can I use this data in my own systems?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The UN/LOCODE dataset is publicly maintained by UNECE and freely available. You can download the full dataset from the UNECE website for use in your TMS, customs software, or internal tools. This directory is a browsable interface over that same dataset, filtered to seaports and maritime terminals.

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