Cut-off time in shipping: meaning

Why cut-offs exist

The terminal plans how the ship is loaded and the carrier must send cargo data to customs before loading, so both need the containers, the bill of lading data and the weights in advance. Each cut-off is set for the sailing and the terminal, and the booking confirmation states them, usually as a date and time in local time.

VGM and advance cargo data

Under SOLAS, a packed container must not be loaded without a verified gross mass, so the VGM cut-off is strict. Some destinations also require cargo data before loading at the port of origin, for example the US 24-hour rule for the carrier's cargo declaration and, for ocean shipments to the United States, the importer's ISF at least 24 hours before loading, which can bring the SI cut-off forward.

If you miss a cut-off

The container may be rolled to the next sailing, with possible extra storage or amendment charges, or the bill of lading may be issued late. If a deadline looks tight, ask the carrier or forwarder early whether a late gate-in or a late SI is possible; it is at their discretion and may cost extra.