Destuffing

Destuffing (also called “stripping” or “devanning”) is the process of unloading cargo from a shipping container at the destination. This operation occurs at the consignee’s facility, warehouse, or Container Freight Station (CFS) and marks the final step before goods enter the supply chain.

Destuffing Locations

Consignee’s Facility

• Door delivery (FCL)
• Container brought to receiver
• Receiver unloads
• Container returned after

Container Freight Station (CFS)

• LCL shipments
• Container deconsolidated
• Cargo sorted by consignee
• Individual pickup/delivery

Port/Terminal

• Sometimes required by customs
• Inspection purposes
• Transloading operations
• Re-export situations

Third-Party Warehouse

• Cross-dock operations
• Distribution centers
• 3PL facilities
• Sort and ship scenarios

Destuffing Process

Preparation

1. Verify container number and seal
2. Check documentation matches
3. Photograph sealed container
4. Note any external damage
5. Have equipment ready

Opening Container

1. Break seal (record number)
2. Photograph seal number/condition
3. Open doors carefully (cargo may have shifted)
4. Assess interior condition
5. Document any visible issues

Unloading

1. Remove cargo systematically
2. Check against packing list
3. Note any damage immediately
4. Sort by SKU/destination
5. Count all pieces
6. Place in staging area

Documentation

1. Sign delivery receipt
2. Note any discrepancies
3. File damage reports if needed
4. Return completed paperwork
5. Photograph damaged items

Destuffing Equipment

Destuffing Timing

Why Speed Matters

• Detention charges on container
• Free time limits
• Warehouse dock scheduling
• Downstream delivery commitments

Typical Unloading Times

Free Time Considerations

• Container free time: typically 2-4 days
• Chassis free time: often 2-3 days
• After free time: detention charges
• Plan unloading promptly

Destuffing Charges

At CFS

Self-Destuffing

• Equipment costs
• Labor time
• Detention risk if slow
• Control over process

Common Destuffing Issues

Cargo Damage

• Document immediately with photos
• Note on delivery receipt
• File claim promptly
• Preserve evidence/packaging

Missing Items

• Verify against packing list
• Check all corners/spaces
• Contact shipper
• File discrepancy report

Wrong Cargo

• Compare markings to B/L
• Don’t accept if not yours
• Contact forwarder/carrier
• Document the error

Shifted Cargo

• Open doors carefully
• Cargo may fall out
• Assess before entering
• Safety first

Destuffing Best Practices

Receiving

1. Inspect seal before breaking
2. Photograph everything
3. Compare container to documents
4. Unload systematically
5. Count all pieces

Documentation

1. Sign conditionally if issues
2. Note all damage/discrepancies
3. Keep copies of everything
4. File claims within time limits
5. Photograph damaged goods

Return Container Promptly

1. Know free time allowance
2. Schedule return transport
3. Clean container if required
4. Return before charges start
5. Get return receipt

Special Situations

Customs Examination

• May require destuff at port
• Additional fees apply
• Delays expected
• Re-stuffing may be needed

Refrigerated Containers

• Keep unit running until empty
• Check temperature records
• Rapid unloading important
• Specialized handling needed

Hazardous Materials

• Trained personnel required
• Safety equipment needed
• Regulatory compliance
• Documentation requirements