
On October 18, 1808, six days after the arrival of the Portuguese royal family in Brazil, Emperor D. João VI decreed the opening of Brazilian ports to friendly nations. This date now serves to honor one of the most important professions in port activity: Stevedore Day.
The stevedore is the professional responsible for moving cargo from ships to yards, warehouses, and land transport modes. The profession emerged with maritime transport itself and the need to load and unload vessels throughout the history of civilizations.
This historical profession has undergone transformations over the years, driven by the modernization of equipment and the introduction of new technologies. It is a symbolic category of the Port.
In recent decades, stevedores have been training and evolving according to market trends and updates. Today, the stevedore's work requires technical knowledge to operate machinery and handle automatic cargo systems, with continuous training to keep up with the technological evolution of the sector.
Currently, more than 4,500 stevedores perform this essential activity at the Port of Santos, with dedication and professionalism. The Autoridade Portuária de Santos (APS) honors and thanks all of them for their commitment to the growth of the Port and Brazil.

