Container Freight Station

A Container Freight Station (CFS) is a warehouse facility where less-than-container-load (LCL) shipments are consolidated into full containers for export or broken down from containers for import distribution. CFS facilities are essential nodes in the global LCL supply chain.

CFS Functions

Export CFS (Origin)

• Receive cargo from multiple shippers
• Store until container is filled
• Consolidate into containers (stuffing)
• Prepare export documentation
• Seal and dispatch containers

Import CFS (Destination)

• Receive full containers from port
• Unload containers (destuffing)
• Sort cargo by consignee
• Store until pickup/delivery
• Handle customs inspections

CFS Operations

Export Process

Day 1-3: Cargo arrival
┌─────────────────────────────────────┐
│ Shipper A → │                       │
│ Shipper B → │    CFS WAREHOUSE     │
│ Shipper C → │                       │
└─────────────────────────────────────┘
              ↓
Day 4-5: Consolidation
┌─────────────────────────────────────┐
│    [Container being stuffed]        │
│    A cargo + B cargo + C cargo      │
└─────────────────────────────────────┘
              ↓
Day 5: To port
     Container → Ship

Import Process

Container arrives from port
              ↓
┌─────────────────────────────────────┐
│    [Container destuffed]            │
│    Cargo sorted by HBL              │
└─────────────────────────────────────┘
              ↓
Pickup/Delivery to consignees
│ → Consignee A
│ → Consignee B
│ → Consignee C

CFS vs. Container Yard (CY)

CFS Charges

Common Fee Types

Free Time

• Typically 3-5 days free storage
• Then daily storage charges apply
• Import CFS: Clear quickly to avoid fees
• Export CFS: Deliver close to cut-off

CFS Location Types

Port CFS

• Located at or near seaport
• Faster container movement
• Higher land costs
• Limited space

Inland CFS

• Away from port congestion
• Lower costs
• Longer transport to port
• More space available

Bonded CFS

• Customs bonded facility
• Goods stored duty-free until cleared
• Enables deferred customs entry
• Additional compliance requirements

Working with CFS

For Exporters

1. Get CFS cut-off dates
2. Deliver cargo on time
3. Provide accurate documentation
4. Mark cargo clearly
5. Ensure proper packaging

For Importers

1. Know your CFS location
2. Clear customs promptly
3. Arrange pickup before free time expires
4. Inspect cargo at pickup
5. Report damage immediately

CFS Documentation

Cargo Receipt

• Issued when CFS receives cargo
• Shows condition at arrival
• Number of pieces/packages
• Weight and volume
• Reference to booking

Delivery Order

• Issued after customs clearance
• Authorizes cargo release
• Presented to CFS
• Must match B/L information

CFS Selection Criteria

What to Consider

• Location and accessibility
• Operating hours
• Free time allowance
• Fee structure
• Handling capability
• Security measures
• Customs bonded status
• Technology/tracking

Questions for CFS

1. What are your free time days?
2. Do you offer after-hours pickup?
3. What security measures are in place?
4. How do you handle cargo inspection?
5. Can you provide real-time tracking?

CFS Best Practices

Avoiding Extra Charges

• Deliver cargo close to sailing
• Pick up imports within free time
• Provide accurate documentation
• Avoid cargo that needs special handling

Minimizing Delays

• Know CFS operating hours
• Have documentation ready
• Clear customs promptly
• Arrange transport in advance
• Track cargo status actively