Business

What happens to Containers at the Container Depot?

Container Depots are maritime facilities that aid transshipment processes in the logistic industry. In the cases of intermodal shipping, the cargo containers are unloaded on the quay and taken to depots to initiate further shipment. A well-built port ensures a properly maintained and functional depot inside or in a hinterland to facilitate cargo shipment. Most logistics processes are carried out at depots to avoid congestion at ports.  So let us look at the multiple port operations that depots handle.

What is a Container Depot?

Often located near shipping ports, container depots are secure facilities that provide storage spaces for empty containers before transshipment. A vital facility in the maritime industry, container depots are home to numerous container fleets. On crowded days at the ports, they also act as a buffer place for container de-stuffing and storage for the next shipment. In addition, after the unloading of cargo, the containers’ repair, fumigation and overall management occur at the container depot itself.

Container Depot and its role in the Shipping Industry

Numerous ships depart and arrive at shipping ports every day. Depots act as commercial warehouses that offer full-range inspection, cleaning, and repair of containers to facilitate the logistics and shipping industry. So it also serves the purpose of cargo container preparation before the next shipment. It frees port traffic and enables better and enhanced service to every customer or stakeholder. Other roles include:

  • Documentation.
  • Custom clearance.
  • Temporary storage for reefer containers.
  • Handling of OOG (Out of Gauge) goods.

Handling of shipping containers at the Container Depot 

  • Upon reaching their destination port, the depot will temporarily hold the empty container for storage before its distribution. 
  • The shipping containers may occasionally be taken directly to container depots for cargo unloading after being discharged from ships. It occurs in cases of heavy port congestion. 
  • After being rendered emptied of cargo, the containers are put for an investigation to check for damage. 
  • The management, repair, cleaning, and fumigation of containers are done, preparing them for the next shipment. 
  • When the time comes, the next shipment is packed and loaded into the containers at the depot. 
  • Before finally being sent to ports for shipping, containers undergo documentation and customs clearances at the depot.

What is meant by ICD in logistics?

Inland Container Depots, also known as ‘Dry Ports’, is located on the hinterlands, away from the main shipping port. These depots help consolidate cargo containers and act as Godowns for storage for the smooth processing of the import-export business. They also execute the role of service stations for customs clearance processes. It allows for decongesting of port spaces since most of the time-taking process is done here. Once ICD has completed the required documentation, you can consider your shipment cleared for export. It does not need to proceed for any more clearances at the port. It can function as an individual entity separate from the custom house jurisdiction. 

What is meant by CFS in logistics?

Unlike the ICD, the Container Freight Station, considered an extended part of the port, is located near the seaport. Shipping containers are directly sent to the depot instead of docking at ports during excessive congestion. It prevents empty container movement by acting as a warehouse for consolidation and deconsolidation of mainly Less than Container Load (LCL) cargo. These different cargoes belong to multiple exporters or importers but are packed into one container to save time, space, and money. A detailed list of all exporters/importers is maintained to avoid chaotic delivery. Goods are examined and assessed for custom clearance. CFS does not operate as an individual entity; it comes under the custom house jurisdiction.

When looked closely, container depots are the powerhouse for the shipping industry. They gain control by initiating the process of cargo stuffing and containerisation. After the legal and careful handling of the cargo at the depot, you are already halfway through.

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