Booking Process Guide
Booking Steps
Step 1: Confirm Cargo Details
- Commodity name (in both Chinese and English)
- Number of packages, gross weight, volume
- Container type (20GP / 40GP / 40HQ)
- Port of loading / port of discharge
- Estimated date of shipment
Step 2: Request and Confirm the Rate
Provide the information above to our operations team to obtain freight rates and sailing schedules. Once confirmed, space is locked in.
Step 3: Booking
Submit a booking to the shipping line or booking agent. You will receive:
- SO (Shipping Order / booking confirmation)
- Vessel name / voyage number
- Closing time (cut-off)
- Estimated date of departure (ETD)
Step 4: Container Trucking
- Arrange container trucking to the factory for live loading
- Or deliver the cargo to a designated warehouse for CFS stuffing
- Confirm the loading time
Step 5: Customs Declaration
- Prepare customs documents (commercial invoice / packing list / sales contract / customs declaration form)
- Lodge the customs declaration
- Obtain the customs release notice
Step 6: Gate-in
- Gate in the laden container at the terminal
- Terminal confirms container receipt
Step 7: Bill of Lading Confirmation
- Verify the B/L details (shipper / consignee / commodity / package count, weight and volume)
- Confirm the B/L type (original B/L / telex release / sea waybill)
FAQ
How far in advance should I book?
We recommend booking 5–7 days ahead, and 7–10 days ahead during peak season.
What is the closing time (cut-off)?
The closing time is the terminal's deadline for receiving containers. Customs release and gate-in must be completed before this deadline. Missing the cut-off means your cargo is rolled to the next sailing.
When does cargo get rolled?
- The carrier has overbooked space
- Customs clearance delays cause you to miss the cut-off
- Declared cargo details do not match the actual cargo