The Port of Vlore was to be located in a natural deepwater harbour. A container hub terminal and free zone industrial site were proposed for the site, with the terminal handling more than 3 million TEU annually. The development would support and encourage the growth of the local manufacturing industry.

Beckett Rankine was appointed to undertake a masterplan study for the proposed container transhipment terminal. A number of outline design options were developed to create a hub that could accommodate the largest modern ships in the Mediterranean. A development schedule was also required.

The recommended design option provided a wide sheltered water area with good berth protection, as well as full protection for the turning circle. The position of the port had to be refined during the planning process to suit other coastal users. The plan also included dredging works and RoRo terminals.