Shipment After Import Clearance
Interlink編集部What Is Cargo Release After Import Permit?
Cargo release after Import Permit refers to the practical process of picking up goods from a CY, CFS, bonded warehouse, or similar facility after the Import Permit has been issued, and then moving the goods forward to inland delivery or final delivery.
In this article, Import Permit means the customs status that allows foreign cargo to be taken into Japan as domestic cargo. Cargo release or pickup means the physical and operational process of taking that cargo out of the CY, CFS, or bonded warehouse. These two concepts are related, but they are not the same.
Once the Import Permit has been issued, the cargo is eligible for domestic pickup from a customs perspective. However, cargo is not automatically released the moment the Import Permit is issued. The D/O, settlement of storage fees and CFS charges, pickup booking, delivery vehicle arrangements, consignee receiving hours, unloading conditions, Free Time, Demurrage, Detention, empty container return deadlines, and cargo condition checks must still be confirmed.
Scope Covered in This Article
| Item | Covered in This Article | Covered in Other Articles |
|---|---|---|
| Meaning of cargo release after Import Permit | Practical positioning of cargo pickup from a CY, CFS, or bonded warehouse after the Import Permit has been issued | Meaning of Import Permit, import declaration, customs examination, and customs inspection |
| Status management before and after cargo release | Differences among Import Permit issued, release arrangement in progress, release booked, cargo released, in transit, and delivery completed | Post-permit delivery, delivery appointment, and delivery status management |
| Release of FCL cargo | Checkpoints from CY pickup to empty container return after delivery | CY pickup, drayage arrangement, Demurrage, Detention, and empty container return |
| Release of LCL cargo | Practical handling of individual cargo pickup from CFS, including packaging, quantity, mark, and cargo identity checks | CFS pickup, CFS storage charges, cargo mix-up, and cargo incident response |
| Risk of additional charges | Confirmation of Free Time, CFS storage charges, CY storage charges, Demurrage, Detention, and redelivery fees | Free Time, Demurrage, Detention, and additional inland delivery charges |
| Cargo condition confirmation | Practical checks for damage, wet damage, shortage, and cargo mix-up at pickup, delivery, or devanning | Cargo incidents, survey reports, insurance claims, and CFS pickup incident response |
Why Confirmation Is Still Needed After Import Permit
From the customer’s perspective, it is easy to assume that once the Import Permit has been issued, delivery can proceed immediately. However, the Import Permit is a milestone in customs procedures. It does not mean that cargo pickup, inland delivery, or final delivery has been completed.
In practice, it is necessary to check the D/O, settlement of charges with the shipping line, NVOCC, CFS, or warehouse, pickup conditions at the CY or CFS, pickup booking, Free Time status, delivery vehicle arrangements, consignee receiving hours, and unloading conditions.
Therefore, even after the Import Permit has been issued, same-day cargo release is not guaranteed. In freight forwarding operations, it is essential to distinguish whether the Import Permit has been issued, whether the cargo can be physically picked up, whether the cargo has departed for delivery, and whether final delivery has been completed.
Status Overview
For cargo release after Import Permit, organizing the current status into stages makes it easier to explain the situation to customers and manage the operation internally. In particular, “Import Permit issued” and “cargo released” are separate statuses.
| Status | Meaning | Next Items to Confirm | Example Explanation to Customer |
|---|---|---|---|
| Import Permit issued | Customs procedures have reached the stage where the cargo may be taken into Japan as domestic cargo | Check D/O, cost settlement, pickup eligibility, and pickup booking | The Import Permit has been issued, but pickup conditions are still being confirmed. |
| Release arrangement in progress | Arrangements are underway to move the cargo out of the CY, CFS, or bonded warehouse | Confirm pickup slot, vehicle availability, delivery destination conditions, and storage fee deadlines | We are currently arranging the pickup booking and vehicle allocation. |
| Release booked | A scheduled pickup plan has been fixed with the CY, CFS, or warehouse | Verify booking date and time, vehicle conditions, reception hours, and required documents | The pickup booking is confirmed, and cargo pickup is planned at the scheduled time. |
| Cargo released | The cargo has physically left the CY, CFS, bonded warehouse, or other storage facility | Confirm whether the cargo is in transit, routed through another warehouse, or subject to delivery plan changes | The cargo has been released and is now moving toward delivery arrangements. |
| In transit | The cargo is being transported to the delivery destination | Check estimated arrival time, receiving hours, and unloading conditions | The cargo is in transit, and the estimated arrival time is being confirmed. |
| Delivery completed | The cargo has been received at the delivery destination | Confirm receipt stamp, external damage, shortage, and any delivery discrepancy | Delivery has been completed. We are confirming the receipt status. |
Differences Between FCL and LCL Cargo
The procedures for cargo release after Import Permit differ between FCL and LCL cargo. FCL cargo is picked up from the CY on a container basis, while LCL cargo is picked up from the CFS as individual cargo units.
| Item | FCL Cargo | LCL Cargo | Practical Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pickup location | Container pickup from the CY | Individual cargo pickup from the CFS | Even after the same Import Permit stage, site reception, booking, and operational conditions differ |
| Main points of confirmation | Container number, D/O, pickup availability date, CY pickup booking, drayage arrangement, consignee receiving hours, empty container return deadline | Number of packages, weight, marks, cargo management number, CFS pickup availability date, CFS charges, storage fees, delivery vehicle | FCL focuses on container management; LCL focuses on cargo-unit verification |
| Delay risks | Drayage shortage, lack of CY pickup slots, consignee unable to receive, empty container return deadline exceeded | Waiting for CFS operations, unpaid storage charges, cargo mix-up, damaged packaging, shortage, delivery vehicle shortage | Delays after the Import Permit often arise from site or delivery conditions, not customs procedures |
| Common additional costs | Demurrage, Detention, drayage cancellation fees, redelivery charges, additional standby charges | CFS storage fees, CFS handling charges, pickup operation fees, delivery change costs, redelivery charges | Shipping line costs and CFS or warehouse costs should be checked separately |
| Cargo condition checks | Check container exterior, seal condition, and cargo condition at devanning | Check packaging, number of packages, wet damage, breakage, and marks at CFS pickup | If abnormalities are found, take photos on site, note exceptions, and notify relevant parties |
| Post-release management | Manage devanning after delivery, empty container return, return depot, and return deadline | Manage individual delivery to consignee, receipt confirmation, and package and quantity verification | FCL follow-up continues until empty container return; LCL follow-up continues until individual cargo receipt confirmation |
CY Pickup for FCL Cargo
For FCL cargo, the container is picked up from the CY after the Import Permit has been issued. In this process, it is important to check the container number, D/O, pickup availability date, Free Time, drayage arrangement, consignee receiving hours, and empty container return deadline.
Even after the Import Permit has been issued, pickup and delivery may be delayed if drayage booking cannot be secured, CY pickup slots are congested, consignee receiving hours do not match the pickup plan, or the empty container return period is short.
With FCL cargo, management must cover not only delivery of the cargo to the consignee but also return of the empty container to the shipping line’s designated depot after devanning. Returning an empty container to a non-designated depot may not be permitted, or additional charges may apply. Late return of the empty container may result in additional costs such as Detention.
Checklist to Avoid Empty Container Return Delays
For FCL cargo, it is essential to plan the empty container return schedule together with the pickup schedule after the Import Permit has been issued. If the consignee’s receiving hours, devanning time, depot reception hours, and drayage operating hours do not align, cargo delivery itself may be completed, but empty container return may still be delayed.
| Item to Confirm | Party to Confirm With | Details to Confirm | Action if Delay Is Expected |
|---|---|---|---|
| Empty container return deadline | Shipping line, NVOCC, drayage provider | Return deadline, Detention start date, return reception hours | Check whether delivery can be moved earlier or devanning time can be shortened |
| Return depot | Shipping line, NVOCC, return depot | Designated return depot, reception hours, congestion status, booking requirement | Confirm whether return to another depot is allowed, whether change fees apply, and whether return location can be changed |
| Return slot | Drayage provider, return depot | Return booking slot, reception cut-off, same-day return availability | Secure a return slot early; if needed, consider next-morning return or a separate return trip |
| Devanning conditions at delivery location | Shipper, consignee, drayage provider | Unloading method, personnel, forklift availability, working hours, allowable waiting time | Consider adding labour, adjusting work hours, devanning at an alternative warehouse, or temporary storage |
| Return deadline extension | Shipping line, NVOCC | Free Time extension, Detention waiver, possibility of extension request | Share delay reason and requested extension period early, then confirm approval and associated costs |
| Advance notice of additional costs | Shipper, importer, internal departments | Detention, drayage waiting fee, rescheduling cost, depot change fee | Explain expected costs to the cargo owner when the risk becomes visible and confirm cost responsibility |
CFS Pickup for LCL Cargo
For LCL cargo, individual shipments are picked up from the CFS after the Import Permit has been issued. For CFS cargo, it is important to verify the number of packages, weight, marks, cargo management number, earliest CFS pickup date, CFS charges, storage fees, and delivery vehicle arrangements.
At the time of pickup from the CFS, damage to packaging, wet damage, quantity shortage, or cargo misidentification may be discovered. In such cases, actions beyond simple delivery may be required, including physical inspection, photography, exception notation, confirmation with the CFS or delivery company, and contact with the shipper or insurance company.
With LCL cargo, individual shipments cannot necessarily be picked up immediately after vessel arrival. Pickup proceeds only after devanning, sorting, bonded area entry confirmation, issuance of the Import Permit, and CFS pickup preparation have been completed.
If Cargo Mismatch Is Discovered at CFS Pickup
If marks, quantity, packaging, cargo number, or invoice information do not match at CFS pickup, a cargo mismatch is suspected. In such cases, do not proceed with urgent delivery. Stop the pickup process on site and verify the cargo’s identity first.
| Step | Check Items | Contact Points | Practical Response |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Stop pickup | Temporarily suspend pickup to prevent loading of incorrect cargo | CFS, delivery company, pickup driver | Do not deliver to the consignee while doubts remain |
| 2. Compare documents with physical cargo | Verify cargo management number, B/L number, marks, quantity, weight, packaging, and photos | CFS, freight forwarder, customs broker | Cross-check with packing list, Arrival Notice, and CFS pickup documents |
| 3. Check similar or misrouted cargo | Check for similar marks, same shipper, same container, or different cargo within the same CFS | CFS, consolidator, NVOCC | Confirm whether cargo has been swapped or mis-sorted |
| 4. Record abnormalities | Record photos, packaging condition, quantity discrepancies, mark differences, on-site personnel, and confirmation time | CFS, delivery company, internal staff | Check whether exceptions can be noted on receipt or pickup documents |
| 5. Contact involved parties in order | Share facts with shipper, importer, customs broker, CFS, delivery company, and, if necessary, insurance company | Shipper, importer, insurance company, related parties | Before attributing responsibility, first clarify cargo identity and check for damage or shortage |
| 6. Decide corrective measures | Confirm re-pickup of correct cargo, return of wrongly dispatched cargo, change of delivery destination, and need for redelivery | CFS, delivery company, shipper, consignee | Confirm additional costs, delivery schedule impact, and whether the case should be handled as a cargo incident |
Checking Free Time and Storage Fees
Free Time is not always determined by the Import Permit date. Depending on the shipping line, NVOCC, CY, CFS, or warehouse terms, the calculation start point and applicable charges may differ.
For example, shipping line Free Time may be based on the vessel arrival date, cargo discharge date, container availability date, or a usage start date specified by the shipping line. By contrast, CFS or warehouse storage charges may start from the CFS in-gate date, the earliest date cargo can be picked up, or the end of a facility-defined free storage period.
Therefore, assuming that the free period always starts from the Import Permit date is risky. Some charges may accrue before the Import Permit is issued, while others may arise because pickup is delayed after the Import Permit.
| Charge / Deadline | Main Scope | Possible Start Points to Confirm | Practical Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shipping line Free Time | Free period for container use or container retention | Vessel arrival date, cargo discharge date, container availability date, shipping line specified date | Check shipping line and NVOCC terms because this affects Demurrage and Detention |
| CY storage fee | Storage of container within CY | CY in-gate date, cargo discharge date, free period expiry date | CY storage terms may differ from shipping line Free Time terms |
| CFS storage fee | Storage of LCL cargo inside CFS | CFS in-gate date, earliest pickup date, free period expiry date | Confirm Free Time and storage fee start dates for each CFS |
| Demurrage | Charges for containers remaining at the port or CY beyond the free period | Shipping line or NVOCC Free Time expiry date | Time may continue to accrue even before the Import Permit is issued |
| Detention | Charges for late return of empty containers after pickup from CY | Container pickup date, return deadline, shipping line specified date | Manage empty container return after delivery |
| Warehouse storage fee | Storage of cargo in bonded warehouse or general warehouse | Warehouse in-gate date, earliest pickup date, contractually agreed free storage deadline | Separate warehouse storage charges from shipping line charges when estimating costs |
Comparison and Contrast Table
| Comparison Item | What to Confirm After Import Permit | Common Misunderstanding | Practical Decision Point |
|---|---|---|---|
| Import Permit and cargo release | Check D/O, cost settlement, and pickup booking after the Import Permit has been issued | Assuming cargo is automatically released once the Import Permit is issued | Manage Import Permit status and physical cargo release status separately |
| FCL and LCL | For FCL, confirm CY pickup and empty container return; for LCL, confirm CFS pickup and individual cargo verification | Assuming both require the same release procedure | Management differs depending on whether cargo is handled by container unit or individual cargo unit |
| D/O and Import Permit | Separately confirm carrier or NVOCC release conditions in addition to the Import Permit | Assuming cargo can be released with the Import Permit alone, without a D/O | Separate customs status from the carrier’s cargo release procedure |
| Free Time and Import Permit date | Confirm Free Time and start point for shipping line, NVOCC, CFS, CY, and warehouse | Assuming Free Time starts from the Import Permit date | Verify vessel arrival date, discharge date, CFS in-gate date, pickup availability date, and carrier rules |
| Cargo release and delivery | Confirm delivery status after pickup, consignee receiving time, and unloading conditions | Assuming delivery is complete once cargo has been released from the storage facility | Communicate separately as released, in transit, and delivered |
| Cargo condition checks | Check packaging, quantity, and marks at pickup, delivery, and devanning | Assuming cargo condition checks are unnecessary after the Import Permit | Cargo damage or mix-up may be identified at pickup |
Common Practical Issues
| Case | Common Issue | Documents / Information to Check | Practical Response |
|---|---|---|---|
| Informing the customer that goods can be delivered once the Import Permit is issued | Confusion arises if the customer arranges the delivery location or workers, but cargo still cannot be picked up | Import Permit date and time, D/O, cost settlement, pickup booking, delivery vehicle | Communicate “Import Permit issued” and “pickup scheduled” as separate statuses |
| Cargo cannot be picked up because D/O is still outstanding | The Import Permit has been issued, but the release conditions of the shipping line or NVOCC are not fulfilled | B/L, D/O, freight and charges payment status, delivery instructions | Confirm D/O exchange status and any unpaid fees |
| Pickup booking cannot be secured | CY, CFS, or warehouse pickup slots are fully booked, making same-day pickup impossible | Pickup availability dates, reception hours, booking slots, vehicle conditions | Consider next available slot, time change, vehicle change, or delivery date adjustment |
| Wrong start point is used for Free Time | Assuming Free Time starts from the Import Permit date may result in already-incurred storage charges or Demurrage | Shipping line terms, NVOCC terms, CFS storage rate table, CY storage conditions | Check shipping line Free Time separately from CFS, CY, and warehouse storage charges |
| Empty container return is delayed | Delivery is complete, but the return depot reception hours or return slot cannot be met | Return deadline, return depot, return booking, devanning time, Detention start date | Secure return slots early and confirm the possibility of non-designated depot return or deadline extension |
| Cargo mix-up is found at CFS | Marks, quantity, or cargo numbers do not match, leading to misdelivery or delivery discrepancy | CFS pickup documents, B/L, cargo management number, marks, photos, packing list | Stop pickup, recheck actual cargo, compare with similar cargo, and notify relevant parties |
| External cargo damage is overlooked | Damage or wet damage is discovered after delivery, making it difficult to determine where the incident occurred | Photos at pickup, receipt, exception notes, delivery records, photos at delivery | Take photos and record exceptions at pickup |
| Delivery conditions at consignee do not match | Vehicle restrictions, specified delivery times, or unloading conditions do not match, causing redelivery or waiting costs | Delivery appointment, receiving hours, vehicle restrictions, unloading equipment, need for workers | Confirm consignee conditions before pickup and adjust vehicle or delivery date if necessary |
Comparison Table of Freight Forwarder Involvement Scope
| Category | Areas Where Freight Forwarders Can Provide Support | Areas Not to Conclusively Decide | Practical Response |
|---|---|---|---|
| Import Permit confirmation | Confirm Import Permit date and time and declaration number with the customs broker | Assuming immediate delivery is possible simply because the Import Permit has been issued | Continue confirming D/O, cost settlement, and release conditions after the Import Permit |
| D/O confirmation | Check D/O issuance status and cost settlement status with the shipping line or NVOCC | Stating that cargo can be picked up without completed D/O | Prepare a checklist of conditions required for carrier-side cargo release |
| FCL release | Coordinate CY pickup booking, drayage arrangement, consignee acceptance time, and empty container return | Assuming operations are complete once the loaded container has left the CY | Manage the process until empty container return is completed or the return deadline is protected |
| LCL release | Confirm CFS pickup availability date, CFS charges, cargo condition, quantity, and marks | Advising that cargo can be picked up anytime as long as it is physically at the CFS | Check CFS reception hours, storage charges, and cargo verification status |
| Additional cost management | Confirm start dates for Free Time expiry, storage charges, Demurrage, and Detention | Explaining that no additional costs can arise after the Import Permit | Separate shipping line costs from CFS, CY, and warehouse costs when sharing risks with the cargo owner |
| Cargo incident response | Support photo documentation, exception notation, stakeholder communication, and initial contact with the insurer | Determining incident cause or liability solely from the site situation | Preserve cargo condition, discovery timing, and related documents |
Example 1: Import Permit Issued but Cargo Cannot Be Released Due to Outstanding D/O
Even if the Import Permit has been issued, cargo may not be released from the CY or CFS if the Delivery Order (D/O) required by the shipping line or NVOCC has not been obtained.
For example, if the original B/L has not been submitted, surrender confirmation is incomplete, freight charges, D/O fees, or CFS charges have not been paid, or consignee confirmation is pending, the Import Permit may be issued while the carrier-side release conditions are still not satisfied.
In such cases, it is appropriate to inform the customer that the Import Permit has been issued, but the D/O is still under confirmation. Stating that the cargo can be released simply because the Import Permit has been issued may cause premature delivery arrangements or delivery scheduling, leading to additional costs or schedule changes.
Example 2: Empty Container Return Is Delayed for FCL Cargo
For FCL cargo, after pickup from the CY and delivery to the consignee, devanning must be completed and the empty container must be returned to the designated depot. If the process is managed only up to cargo delivery, delays in empty container return may not be noticed promptly.
For example, if unloading at the consignee’s site is prolonged or the return depot’s reception hours are missed, empty container return may be postponed to the next business day or later, potentially resulting in Detention. Returning the container to a depot other than the designated depot also requires confirmation with the shipping line or NVOCC regarding acceptance, additional charges, and whether the return location can be changed.
Before pickup, it is important to confirm the return deadline, designated depot, assigned return slot, devanning time requirements, and the consignee’s work arrangements. If delay is expected, actions such as securing a return slot early, checking depot substitution feasibility, applying for return deadline extension, arranging additional drayage, and explaining costs to the cargo owner are essential.
Example 3: Suspected Cargo Mix-Up at CFS Pickup
For LCL cargo, discrepancies between marks, quantity, cargo numbers, or packaging and the documents may be found when picking up individual cargo from the CFS. Such discrepancies suggest a possible cargo mix-up or sorting error.
For example, if the packing list indicates five cartons but only four cartons can be confirmed on site, or if cargo from another shipper with similar marks is placed nearby, proceeding with delivery as-is may result in misdelivery or shortage claims.
In this situation, cargo pickup should be stopped first. CFS pickup documents, B/L number, cargo management number, marks, quantity, weight, and photos should be cross-checked. Confirmation should then be sought sequentially from the CFS, consolidator, freight forwarder, and shipper. If necessary, initial contact with the marine cargo insurance company should also be made. Before discussing liability, it is critical to confirm the cargo’s identity and whether any shortage or damage exists.
Common Misunderstandings
| Common Misunderstanding | Correct Perspective | Practical Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Since the Import Permit has been issued, delivery can definitely be made today. | The Import Permit is a milestone in customs procedures, but it does not guarantee same-day delivery. | Confirm D/O, pickup booking, vehicle availability, and consignee acceptance hours. |
| If the Import Permit has been issued, the cargo has already been released. | Import Permit and physical cargo release are separate statuses. | Explain the status as Import Permit issued, release arrangement in progress, release booked, or cargo released. |
| Since the Import Permit has been issued, no additional charges will occur. | After the Import Permit, delay in physical pickup can still cause storage charges, Demurrage, Detention, and other costs. | Check Free Time, storage charge start date, and empty container return deadline. |
| Cargo can be picked up based solely on the Import Permit even without a D/O. | Cargo pickup requires D/O and other carrier-side or facility-side release procedures. | Confirm D/O issuance status and readiness for pickup. |
| If cargo is at the CFS, it can be picked up anytime. | CFS pickup depends on pickup availability date, fee settlement, operating hours, and cargo condition. | Check CFS pickup conditions and operating hours. |
| For FCL, the job is complete once the container leaves the CY. | Post-delivery devanning and empty container return must still be managed. | Confirm return deadline, return depot, acceptance of non-designated depot return, and Detention start date. |
| Free Time starts from the Import Permit date. | The start of Free Time depends on the shipping line, NVOCC, CFS, CY, or warehouse conditions. | Verify vessel arrival date, discharge date, CFS in-gate date, earliest pickup date, and carrier rules. |
| Inspecting external packaging at CFS pickup is only the delivery company’s responsibility. | Checking packaging, quantity, and marks at pickup is critical for initial response to cargo damage or misdelivery. | If abnormalities are found, document with photos, note exceptions, and inform relevant parties. |
Freight Forwarder Decision Checklist
| Check Point | Party to Confirm With | Check Items | Action if Issues Arise |
|---|---|---|---|
| Import Permit confirmation | Customs broker, in-house customs department | Import Permit date and time, declaration number, cargo number, Import Permit information | If the Import Permit has not yet been issued, verify where it is held up: customs examination, inspection, tax payment, or other regulations |
| D/O confirmation | Shipping line, NVOCC, freight forwarder, D/O department | D/O acquisition, B/L status, freight and charge payment, release conditions | If D/O has not been obtained, confirm B/L status, payment status, and carrier-side release conditions |
| Cost settlement | Shipping line, CFS, warehouse, agents, internal accounting | Storage fees, CFS charges, D/O fees, outstanding payments | Identify unsettled items and settle them before planned pickup |
| Ready for pickup | CY, CFS, bonded warehouse, warehouse | Pickup availability date, reception hours, cargo condition, operational availability | If pickup is not possible, confirm availability date and reason |
| Pickup booking | CY, CFS, warehouse, drayage operator, delivery company | Pickup slot, booking date and time, vehicle requirements, reception cut-off | If preferred slot is unavailable, consider the next slot, vehicle change, or delivery date adjustment |
| Free Time and storage charge deadlines | Shipping line, NVOCC, CFS, CY, warehouse | Shipping line Free Time, CFS/CY Free Time, start point, storage charge start date, Demurrage and Detention start dates | Confirm shipping line charges and CFS/CY charges separately and share additional cost risks with the consignee |
| Empty container return | Shipping line, NVOCC, drayage operator, return depot | Return deadline, designated depot, return slot, reception hours, acceptance of non-designated depot return | If return delay is expected, confirm return slot, depot change, extension request, and additional costs |
| Delivery vehicle | Delivery company, drayage operator, internal delivery department | Vehicle availability, vehicle size, loading conditions, cancellation terms | If vehicle shortage occurs, consider delivery date change, vehicle size change, or alternative operator |
| Delivery destination conditions | Shipper, delivery location, delivery company | Reception hours, vehicle restrictions, unloading method, booking requirement, need for labour | If conditions do not match, adjust delivery date, vehicle, or work setup |
| Cargo condition check | CFS, warehouse, delivery company, delivery destination | Damage, wet damage, shortage, mark discrepancy, cargo mix-up | Take photos, note exceptions, re-inspect cargo, and inform relevant parties |
Reasons for Delays from the Customer's Perspective
From the customer’s perspective, delays after the Import Permit may be difficult to understand. However, in practice, even after the Import Permit has been issued, cargo cannot be physically picked up unless the necessary conditions at the storage location and carrier side have been satisfied.
Specifically, delays may occur after the Import Permit because the D/O has not yet been obtained, charges remain unsettled, pickup booking is still pending, delivery vehicles are unavailable, the consignee cannot receive the cargo, CFS handling is not complete, or empty container return conditions must be adjusted.
Freight forwarders should communicate the current status clearly with specific explanations such as, “The Import Permit has been issued, but we are currently waiting for the pickup booking,” “The Import Permit has been issued, but the D/O is still under verification,” or “CFS pickup is planned for tomorrow morning.”
Cost Implications
Delays in cargo pickup after the Import Permit may lead to charges such as CFS storage fees, CY storage fees, Demurrage, Detention, drayage cancellation fees, and redelivery costs.
For FCL cargo especially, it is critical to check the container Free Time period and the empty container return deadline to avoid significant additional charges. If the consignee acceptance date shifts after the Import Permit, it may also affect the empty container return deadline.
For LCL cargo, issues may arise with CFS storage fees, cargo pickup handling fees, and rescheduling of delivery arrangements. When pickup from a CFS is delayed, it is important to confirm the start date and amount of storage fees as early as possible.
Relation to Cargo Incidents
At the time of cargo release after the Import Permit, it is important to check the external condition and quantity of the cargo. If damage, wet damage, or shortage is discovered when picking up from the CFS or warehouse, it may be necessary to note exceptions on the receipt, take photographs, confirm with the CFS or delivery company, and notify the insurance company and relevant parties.
For FCL cargo, confirm the container exterior, seal condition, and cargo condition during devanning at the delivery point. For LCL cargo, check packaging, quantity, marks, wet damage, and damage when collecting from the CFS.
Cargo release after the Import Permit marks the transition from customs procedures to inland delivery and serves as a critical checkpoint to verify cargo condition before handover to domestic transport.
Points to Note When Explaining to Customers
It is important to explain to customers that Import Permit issued, cargo released, in transit, and delivered are distinct stages of the process.
Even after the Import Permit has been issued, actual delivery cannot proceed until the D/O, payment settlement, pickup booking, delivery vehicle, and receiving conditions at the delivery destination are all arranged.
Freight forwarders should communicate the current status by breaking it down into stages such as Import Permit issued, release arrangement in progress, release booked, CFS pickup scheduled, CY pickup scheduled, in transit, and delivery completed. This helps customers understand where the cargo actually is in the process.
Practical Points to Note
After the Import Permit has been issued, it is important not to assume everything is finished simply because the customs procedure has reached this stage. In practice, the workflow continues through carrier-side release conditions, cost settlement, pickup booking, vehicle arrangement, delivery destination conditions, and cargo condition checks.
Especially when Free Time or storage charge deadlines are approaching, even a slight delay after the Import Permit may result in additional costs. As soon as the Import Permit is issued, the pickup date, delivery date, empty container return deadline, and cost accrual timing should be reconfirmed.
When explaining the situation to customers, stating only that the Import Permit has been issued is insufficient. It is necessary to explain the current stage, the next required action, and the expected timing for cargo pickup or delivery.
Summary
Cargo release after Import Permit is the practical process of retrieving cargo from a CY, CFS, bonded warehouse, or similar facility after customs procedures have allowed the cargo to be taken into Japan as domestic cargo.
Even after the Import Permit has been issued, immediate delivery may not be possible until the D/O, cost settlement, pickup booking, drayage arrangement, CFS pickup readiness, delivery vehicle, and consignee conditions are aligned.
It is critical to manage the statuses separately as Import Permit issued, release arrangement in progress, release booked, cargo released, in transit, and delivery completed. For FCL cargo, management should continue through empty container return. For LCL cargo, management should include cargo identity verification and condition checks at CFS pickup.
Clear understanding of cargo release after Import Permit helps explain why cargo does not always arrive immediately after the Import Permit is issued, where delays occur, and at which stage the cargo can move toward final delivery.
