1. Full Booking Process
Inquiry → Confirm Booking → Receive S/O → Pick Up Container → Load Cargo → Return Container → Customs Declaration → Release → Load on Vessel
| Step | Action | Timeline | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| ① Inquiry | Provide freight forwarder with product name/weight/volume/port of destination | T-10 days | The more detailed the info, the more accurate the quote |
| ② Confirm Booking | Submit Booking Form to confirm | T-7 days | Confirm price and sailing schedule in writing |
| ③ Receive S/O | Obtain booking confirmation | T-7 days | Note the cut-off times for customs and container |
| ④ Pick Up Container | Pick up empty container with S/O | T-5 days | Check container condition |
| ⑤ Load Cargo | Load at factory | T-4 days | Watch for center of gravity and securing |
| ⑥ Return Container | Return loaded container to terminal yard | T-3 days | Must be done before the CY closing time |
| ⑦ Customs Declaration | Submit customs documents | T-3 days | Documents must be complete and accurate |
| ⑧ Release & Load | Load after customs release | T-0 days | Confirm release status |
2. Three Cut-Off Times You Must Know
| Time Concept | Meaning | Consequence of Missing |
|---|---|---|
| CY Closing | Latest time to return loaded container to terminal | ❌ Container fails to board |
| Customs Cut-off | Latest time for customs clearance | ❌ Cannot load on vessel |
| SI Cut-off | Latest time to submit bill of lading instructions | ⚠️ Amendment fee incurred (¥300-500) |
Practical Order of Cut-Off Times:
CY Closing (earliest) → Customs Cut-off → SI Cut-off (latest)
Example: Vessel departs Saturday, CY closing Wednesday 12:00, Customs cut-off Thursday 17:00, SI cut-off Friday 12:00.
3. Booking Form Key Points
A standard booking application should include the following information:
| Information Item | Example |
|---|---|
| Shipper | Full company name |
| Consignee | TO ORDER or specific company name |
| Port of Loading (POL) | SHENZHEN |
| Port of Discharge (POD) | HAMBURG |
| Container Type/Quantity | 1×40HQ |
| Cargo Description | Hardware products |
| Gross Weight/Volume | 12,500KGS / 28CBM |
| Estimated Time of Departure (ETD) | 2026-08-15 |
4. Four Booking Channels
| Channel | Suitable For | Pros and Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Direct booking with shipping line | Large clients with monthly volume >100 TEU | Transparent pricing but no value-added services |
| Booking via freight forwarder | ✅ Most recommended for most companies | 10%-20% lower cost than shipping lines with one-stop service |
| Online booking platform | Small batch standardized cargo | Transparent quotes, easy operation |
| Long-term contract booking | Large and stable volumes | Locks in freight rates and space |
5. Common Booking Questions
Q: Can I cancel a booking?
A: Yes, but you must notify before the customs cut-off. Some shipping lines charge a cancellation fee during peak season (approx. ¥200-500 per container).
Q: What if the shipping line cancels a voyage?
A: The shipping line is obligated to arrange the next available voyage or offer free transfer to another carrier.
Q: What if there's no space available during peak season?
A: Book 3-4 weeks in advance, select multiple carriers as alternatives, or book via a forwarder with long-term contract space.
Have cargo to ship? Send product name/weight/volume/port of destination to Bofeng Logistics for an ALL-IN inclusive quote—one price, no hidden fees. 20 years of international ocean freight experience.
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Get a Quote: 13075678958 | info@zhbfwl.com
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