Many shippers are surprised when a shipment is marked as arrived, yet the container is not available for pickup. This disconnect causes confusion and costly delays.

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What it is:
“Arrived” usually means the vessel has reached the port, not that the container is ready for release. Arrival status reflects vessel movement, not cargo availability.

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How it works:
After a vessel arrives, containers must be discharged, grounded, sorted, and cleared through terminal systems. This process can take hours or days, especially during congestion. Additionally, cargo cannot be released until customs clearance is completed, freight charges are paid, and the bill of lading is properly surrendered. Until all conditions are met, the container remains on hold.

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Examples:

- A vessel arrives on Monday, but containers are discharged on Wednesday.

- Customs select the shipment for inspection, delaying release.

- The bill of lading is not endorsed correctly, blocking pickup.

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Facts:
Arrival does not equal availability. Most port delays occur after vessel arrival, not during transit.

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Misinterpretations:

- Many believe “arrived” means the container is ready. It does not.

- Another misconception is that terminals control release. In reality, multiple parties must approve it.

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Who solves it:
Skypace tracks arrival, discharge, clearance, and release milestones separately, giving shippers clarity on when cargo is actually available.