What's this about?
Most ports are based in the South East and East of England. 90% of UK trade passes through a UK port.
Ports also deal with fishing, passenger, car ferry operations and support for the offshore industry as well as the provision of coastal defences, conservation and environmental services.
Ports and harbours employ a range of specialist people to ensure that they are operated efficiently.
These include harbour masters and marine pilots to navigate ships. Port operators ensure that freight is moved from a ship to a train or vehicle.
Moving large items port operatives will use lifting plant, cranes and forklift trucks.
People are also employed in passenger operations to ensure that passengers from cruise ships and ferries pass through the terminal safely.
Engineers maintain the plants, vehicles and boats in the port.