Amports expands vehicle storage capacity at Lázaro Cárdenas

Amports has invested $4.5m in a 12-hectare vehicle storage yard near the Mexican port of Lázaro Cárdenas. The off-port yard in La Palma, called Patio L, has a vehicle storage capacity of 5,000 units. It has been developed in close collaboration with national port system administration (Asipona). First phase operations will begin in August this year.

The move comes in response to demand for space at Lázaro Cárdenas, with several OEMs showing strong interest in securing space in the new facility, according to Amports. Last year the port processed more than 675,000 finished vehicles, a slight decline (-3.4%) on the previous year but there has been significant growth in volumes of 40% over the last five years, up from 483,000 units handled in 2020. Amports has been providing services at the port since 2003. 

Amports said the new high-quality infrastructure has features similar to Patio P, its bonded facility within the port (which has capacity for 15,800 vehicles). In addition to its optimised operational design, the yard will feature elements that ensure safety, functionality, and flexibility for automakers and logistics partners, according to the company. 

The fully paved and fenced storage yard features designated loading and unloading areas, a vehicle washing area and 24/7 CCTV surveillance. Amports is providing flexible entry and exit hours for special campaigns and will also locate a parts storage warehouse onsite in a later phase of development.

“The goal is clear: to provide OEMs and logistics providers with a hub that combines strategic location, operational agility and high-quality standards,” said the company in a statement. “Lázaro Cárdenas continues to position itself as a key link in the automotive logistics chain, and Amports reinforces that vision by investing in smart, resilient infrastructure.” 

Amports said the new facility reaffirms its commitment to national port growth, sustained investment and the advancement of automotive nearshoring. 

Amports is also managing finished vehicle growth at the Mexican port of Altamira.