Yard storage is the temporary outdoor storage of containers, trailers, vehicles, equipment, or freight in a secure logistics yard. It is commonly used when goods are waiting to be loaded, unloaded, inspected, transferred, or moved into a warehouse or distribution centre. In supply chain operations, yard storage acts as a buffer between transportation and warehousing. It is especially useful during port delays, warehouse overflow, seasonal demand spikes, construction projects, or drayage operations. Unlike indoor warehousing, yard storage is usually best for cargo that does not require climate control or specialised indoor handling. A well-managed yard storage facility typically includes fencing, controlled access, lighting, trailer tracking, security monitoring, and organised space for containers or equipment.
Yard storage is a fee charged by a trucking yard, CFS, or distribution facility for storing a container or trailer in their lot beyond the included free period. It applies when a container is pre-pulled from the port terminal and held at a yard before delivery.
- Common when a container is picked up early to avoid demurrage but the warehouse is not ready to receive
- Charged per day per container or trailer
- Typically less expensive than demurrage at the port terminal
- Coordinate pre-pull and warehouse scheduling to minimize yard storage duration
For related logistics context, see glossary entries on Pre-Pull, Demurrage, Detention, and Drayage.
