A container yard, or CY, is a secured terminal area used to receive, store and move full or empty shipping containers before loading, after discharge or between transport legs.
What happens at a container yard?
Terminal operators gate containers in and out, inspect visible condition, assign storage positions, move units with handling equipment and release them against authorized instructions.
Container yard versus container freight station
A container yard handles container units. A container freight station handles cargo that is consolidated into or removed from containers, commonly for less-than-container-load shipments.
Which dates matter?
Track gate-in, terminal cut-off, vessel loading, discharge, availability, free-time expiry and gate-out. These events affect whether a shipment meets its sailing and whether storage or demurrage charges arise.
What records should be retained?
Keep the container number, seal, booking, equipment condition, weight, terminal receipts, customs status, release authorization and gate transactions.
What should a shipper verify?
Confirm operating hours, appointment rules, cut-offs, free time, hazardous-goods restrictions and whether the container is cleared for pickup. Vessel arrival alone does not make it available.
