A CFS, or Container Freight Station, is a warehouse or logistics facility where cargo is consolidated or deconsolidated before or after international container transport. For exports, a CFS receives smaller LCL shipments from multiple shippers and loads them into one container. For imports, it unloads a consolidated container and separates freight by consignee or destination. CFS facilities support LCL shipping, customs handling, cargo inspection, storage, documentation, and final distribution.
CFS Operations
- Export CFS: receives LCL cargo from multiple shippers, consolidates into full containers, delivers to terminal
- Import CFS: receives inbound containers, strips cargo, releases each shipment to its consignee
- Operated or contracted by freight forwarders and NVOCCs
Each vessel sailing has a CFS cutoff deadline. Missing it rolls cargo to the next available sailing.
Learn more about Dedola’s ocean freight shipping services. Related terms: NVOCC, Consolidation, FCL.
