Imagine this scenario: After painstakingly securing a major international order and preparing the goods for shipment, your freight forwarder informs you that the "shipping space has been released," followed by "containers haven't been released yet." While these terms may sound similar, they represent fundamentally different processes in international logistics. What exactly do they mean, and how do they differ? This article provides a comprehensive breakdown of these crucial freight forwarding concepts.
I. Shipping Space Release
Shipping Space Release, also known as "space confirmation," refers to the process in international shipping where the carrier (shipping company) reviews and approves a freight forwarder's booking request (Booking Note). After verifying pricing and other relevant information, the carrier allocates specific cargo space on a vessel. Essentially, this is the carrier's formal approval that guarantees reserved transportation capacity for the goods. This step is critical in the shipping process as it determines whether goods can be transported as scheduled.
II. Container Release
Container Release occurs after the carrier confirms pricing and space allocation, when they issue a Shipping Order (S/O) to the freight forwarder. The forwarder then provides this document to either the trucking company or the shipper. With the S/O, the designated party can collect empty containers from specified locations, load the goods, and return the filled containers to designated depots. During this process, an Equipment Interchange Receipt is typically issued to document the container's condition—a crucial record for the entire container handling process.
III. Key Differences and Relationship
| Item | Shipping Space Release | Container Release | Relationship |
|---|---|---|---|
| Definition | Carrier confirms and allocates vessel space | Issuance of S/O permitting empty container collection | Both are essential shipping processes; space release precedes container release |
| Prerequisite | Forwarder's booking request approved by carrier | Carrier has confirmed pricing and space | |
| Outcome | Booking confirmation received | S/O obtained | |
| Next Steps | Await container release for loading preparations | Collect empty containers and commence loading |
In simple terms, space release means "permission to board the vessel," while container release means "containers are available for loading." Without space release, container release cannot occur; without container release, goods cannot be loaded for transportation.
IV. Subsequent Procedures After Release
Following successful space and container releases, these critical steps must be completed:
- Loading: Truckers transport empty containers to warehouses or production sites for loading. Proper cargo stowage is essential to ensure transport safety.
- Container Number Submission: Truckers or logistics teams must promptly provide container numbers to forwarders. Forwarders need these details before the deadline to submit Shipping Instructions (S/I) for bill of lading preparation.
- Manifest Data Entry: Accurate container numbers are required for pre-customs manifest submissions, which are crucial for smooth clearance.
Understanding the distinction between space release and container release is fundamental to international freight forwarding operations. Mastering these concepts enables shippers and forwarders to collaborate effectively, ensuring efficient and successful ocean shipments.