Editing Port of Philadelphia (section)

== Challenges ==

Channel depth has historically constrained the port's ability to accommodate the largest vessels. The Delaware River main channel has been deepened to 45 feet through federal projects, enabling larger ships to reach Philadelphia. However, the largest container vessels now exceed even this depth, limiting the port's access to the newest generation of mega-ships.<ref name="philaport"/>

Competition from the Port of New York and New Jersey, with its larger facilities and established shipping connections, poses ongoing challenges. Philadelphia competes for cargo that might otherwise transit through competing ports, emphasizing service, cost, and connections to inland markets. The port's rail connections and proximity to distribution centers in Pennsylvania provide competitive advantages for certain trades.<ref name="philaport"/>