CFS and Bonded Cargo Delivery
Interlink編集部About CFS and Bonded Cargo Entry
CFS stands for Container Freight Station, which is primarily a facility for consolidating, sorting, receiving, and dispatching LCL cargo. For imports, consolidated containers discharged from the vessel are transported to the CFS, where the cargo is devanned, sorted, and individually checked before proceeding to customs clearance, inspection, Import Permit, and release for delivery.
Bonded cargo entry refers to bringing foreign cargo into a bonded area under customs control. In freight forwarder operations, key points for deciding when customs clearance can start and when delivery can be scheduled include whether the cargo has entered the CFS, whether individual cargo can be identified, and whether bonded cargo entry confirmation has been obtained.
A CFS is not just a warehouse. It is a crucial operational hub where LCL cargo is confirmed as individual shipments and processed through import declaration, export declaration, customs inspection, sample removal, CFS release, delivery, and vessel loading.
Especially for LCL cargo, it is necessary to separately monitor vessel arrival, CY delivery, CFS transport, devanning, sorting, bonded cargo entry confirmation, declaration, inspection, permit, and release or loading.
Scope of This Article
This article organizes the basic role of the CFS, the meaning of bonded cargo entry, differences in CFS use for import and export LCL cargo, and practical points freight forwarders should verify.
Although both imports and exports involve CFS and bonded cargo entry, for imports the CFS functions as the place where cargo is removed from consolidated containers and identified as individual cargo; for exports, it serves as the place where cargo is collected from shippers, consolidated, and loaded onto vessels.
| Item | Content Covered in This Article | Content Covered in Other Articles in Detail |
|---|---|---|
| Basics of CFS | Organizes the role of Container Freight Stations and their use for import and export LCL cargo. | The specific import LCL cargo delivery flow is covered in "CFS Delivery". |
| Meaning of Bonded Cargo Entry | Organizes the practical meaning of bringing foreign cargo into a bonded area under customs control. | The overall system and types of bonded areas are discussed in "Bonded Area". |
| CFS for Import LCL Cargo | Covers the processes of devanning, sorting, individual cargo confirmation, import declaration, Import Permit, and CFS release. | Post-permit pickup procedures are covered in "CFS Release" and "Post-Permit Delivery". |
| CFS for Export LCL Cargo | Covers cargo delivery from shippers, CFS cut-off, export declaration, Export Permit, vanning, and vessel loading. | Export customs clearance, shipment confirmation, and cut-off date management are covered in related export articles. |
| Differences from CY Delivery | Clarifies that while CFS mainly handles LCL cargo, CY delivery involves container-level confirmation for FCL cargo. | FCL cargo delivery confirmation is covered in "CY Delivery" and "CY Delivery Confirmation and Pre-Customs Clearance Check". |
| Customs Inspection and Sample Removal | Covers key points for inspections, unpacking, content checks, sample removals, and repacking inside the CFS. | Details appear in "Customs Inspection", "Inspection Designation", "Inspection Attendance", and "Sample Removal". |
| Customer Explanation | Covers how to explain stages such as CFS delivery, under declaration, under inspection, permit granted, ready for release, and scheduled shipment separately. | Delivery date adjustments and delivery terms are handled in delivery-related articles such as "Post-Permit Delivery". |
Main Practical Operations Related to CFS
The CFS is used for both import and export of LCL cargo. However, its role differs between imports and exports.
For imports, it is the place where cargo is removed from consolidated containers and confirmed as individual cargo for customs clearance and onward delivery. For exports, cargo collected from shippers is brought into the CFS, consolidated with other cargo, and loaded onto the vessel.
Therefore, understanding the CFS requires distinguishing between its role as the "place for cargo removal" in imports and as the "place for cargo collection and consolidation" in exports.
Differences in CFS Use for Imports and Exports
The CFS is involved with both import and export LCL cargo, but the items to confirm, deadlines, delay risks, and forwarder roles differ.
| Item | CFS for Import LCL Cargo | CFS for Export LCL Cargo | Practical Points of Attention |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Role | Devanning consolidated containers and verifying individual cargo | Collecting cargo from shippers and loading into consolidated containers | Functions as the point of cargo removal for imports and as the aggregation point before loading for exports. |
| Main Flow | Vessel arrival, CY delivery, CFS trucking, devanning, sorting, delivery verification, import declaration, Import Permit, CFS release | Cargo collection, CFS delivery, cargo verification, export declaration, Export Permit, vanning, vessel loading | The order of verification at the same CFS is reversed between import and export. |
| Verification Items | B/L number, cargo management number, quantity, marks, external condition, delivery verification, import declaration eligibility | Delivery schedule, CFS cut-off, document cut-off, cargo quantity, packing style, marks, Export Permit, vessel loading eligibility | Import focuses on individual cargo confirmation; export focuses on cut-off times and loading eligibility. |
| Cut-off and Time Management | Delivery confirmation, CFS storage charges, Import Permit, cargo release reception hours, delivery schedule are important | CFS cut-off, CY cut-off, document cut-off, whether cargo can be loaded on the scheduled vessel are important | For imports, timing of cargo release is critical; for exports, meeting cut-offs is critical. |
| Delay Risks | Waiting for devanning, waiting for sorting, unknown cargo, quantity discrepancies, customs inspection, other regulatory checks | Collection delays, late CFS delivery, document deficiencies, export inspection, exceeding cut-off times | For imports, CFS operations are major risks; for exports, delivery and document cut-offs are key risk factors. |
| Cost Risks | CFS storage fees, CFS handling charges, unpacking fees, repacking costs, delivery change fees | Late delivery charges, rebooking fees, rollover-related costs, CFS handling charges | For imports, storage fees are a major concern; for exports, rebooking costs if cargo cannot be loaded on the scheduled vessel are problematic. |
| Focus for Customer Explanation | After vessel arrival, when cargo is confirmed as individual units and when it can be released | Whether cargo can meet the CFS cut-off and be loaded on the scheduled vessel | Explain import in terms of delivery-ready date; explain export in terms of loading eligibility on the scheduled vessel. |
Relationship Between CFS Delivery, Bonded Cargo Entry, and CFS Release
In CFS operations, "CFS delivery," "bonded cargo entry," and "CFS release" are often confused. Separating these roles makes it easier to explain at which stage the cargo is currently held.
| Term | Meaning | Main Items to Verify | Related Articles | Practical Points of Attention |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CFS Delivery | The stage where LCL cargo enters the CFS and can be confirmed as individual cargo | Devanning, sorting, delivery registration, cargo number, quantity, external condition | CFS Delivery | CFS delivery is the starting point for customs clearance and cargo release, but it is not Import Permit. |
| Bonded Cargo Entry | Carrying foreign cargo into a customs-controlled bonded area | Confirmation of entry into bonded area, declaration eligibility, customs control, delivery information | Bonded Area, Delivery Confirmation | Because the cargo is under customs control, it cannot be freely unpacked, removed, or delivered. |
| CFS Release | Taking cargo out of CFS after Import Permit is granted | Import Permit, CFS charges, release reception hours, delivery vehicle, delivery destination conditions | CFS Release, Post-Permit Delivery | Even after Import Permit is granted, delivery cannot proceed unless expenses are settled and release arrangements are finalized. |
Flow of Import LCL Cargo
For import LCL cargo, after vessel arrival, the consolidated container is delivered to the CY and then trucked to the CFS. At the CFS, cargo is removed from the container by devanning and sorted by B/L, marks, quantity, and packing form.
After individual cargo verification, customs brokers file import declarations, and cargo undergoes customs examination or any necessary inspections before being released from the CFS after Import Permit is granted.
In this flow, vessel arrival and cargo being confirmed individually at the CFS are separate stages. Until devanning and sorting are completed, it may be difficult to progress with customs clearance or delivery arrangements in actual logistics practice.
| Stage | Main Content | Common Causes of Delay | Next Steps to Check |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vessel Arrival | The vessel arrives at the port | Arrival delay, berth congestion, waiting for cargo handling | Confirm arrival time, cargo handling schedule, and location of consolidated containers. |
| CY Inbound | Consolidated containers are delivered to the CY | CY inbound information not updated, container number mismatch | Confirm if the target containers have arrived at the CY. |
| CFS Transfer | Consolidated containers are moved to the CFS | Waiting for drayage arrangement, CFS acceptance delay, port congestion | Check estimated CFS arrival time and planned devanning schedule. |
| Devanning and Sorting | Unload cargo from containers and sort by B/L, marks, and quantity | Work congestion, mark mismatches, quantity discrepancies, unknown cargo | Confirm whether the cargo can be identified individually. |
| CFS Inbound Confirmation | Cargo inbound information becomes available as individually identifiable goods | Inbound information not updated, cargo management number mismatch, pending registration | Check if import declaration can be progressed. |
| Import Declaration and Examination | Customs broker files import declaration and customs examines the cargo or documents | Document deficiencies, HS code not finalized, other regulations incomplete, customs inspection designated | Confirm review status, whether inspection is required, and if additional documents are needed. |
| Import Permit and CFS Release | After Import Permit is granted, cargo is picked up from the CFS | Unsettled CFS charges, release reservation missing, delivery vehicle not arranged | Confirm release reception time, delivery vehicle, and consignee’s receiving conditions. |
Export LCL Cargo Flow
For export LCL cargo, the shipper or domestic carrier delivers the cargo to the CFS. At the CFS, the number of packages, packing type, marks, and external condition of the cargo are checked, and it is consolidated with other cargo into containers.
In export, if the cargo is delivered past the CFS cut-off, it may not be loaded on the planned vessel. Freight forwarders need to check the cargo delivery schedule, CFS cut-off, document deadlines, export declaration, Export Permit, and vessel schedule together.
For export LCL cargo, it is important not to rely solely on cargo entry at the CFS, but to also confirm that Export Permit has been granted and that conditions are met to load on the planned vessel.
| Stage | Main Content | Common Causes of Delay | Next Steps to Check |
|---|---|---|---|
| Collection and Domestic Delivery | Collect export cargo from the shipper and deliver it to the CFS | Collection delay, incomplete cargo, delayed packing, shortage of delivery vehicles | Confirm if it will meet the CFS cut-off. |
| CFS Inbound | Deliver export cargo to the CFS | Missing CFS cut-off, delivery to wrong location, mark mismatch, quantity discrepancies | Confirm delivery, quantity, marks, and packing condition. |
| Export Declaration | Customs broker files export declaration | Invoice deficiencies, incomplete export control classification, HS code not finalized, other regulations incomplete | Confirm expected timing of Export Permit and whether additional documents are needed. |
| Export Permit | Obtain Export Permit from customs | Customs inspection designated, document deficiencies, pending other regulation checks | Confirm whether conditions for loading on the planned vessel are in place. |
| Vanning | Consolidate with other cargo and load into containers | Cargo not arrived, quantity differences, poor packing, CFS operational congestion | Confirm that the target cargo will be loaded into the planned container. |
| Vessel Loading | Consolidated containers are loaded onto the planned vessel | CY cut-off missed, shipping line reasons, rollovers, document deficiencies | Confirm loading on the planned vessel and Bill of Lading issuance schedule. |
Main Checks at CFS
At the CFS, whether import or export, it is confirmed whether the cargo is in a workable condition at the site, whether the documents and cargo match, and whether it is ready to move to the next step.
- Whether the cargo has been delivered to the designated CFS
- Whether inbound delivery confirmation has been obtained
- Whether cargo quantity, weight, external condition, and marks have no issues
- Whether the cargo is ready to proceed with import or export declaration
- Whether customs inspection has been designated
- Whether sampling or content inspection is required
- Whether there are any issues with allowable release dates and reception times at the CFS
- Whether delivery time windows and truck arrangements match the consignee’s requirements
- For export cargo, whether cargo meets CFS cut-off and vessel schedule
Relation to Customs Inspection and Sampling
If customs inspection is designated, cargo may be examined at the CFS. Depending on inspection requirements, unpacking, content checking, photo documentation, repacking, and inspection attendance may be necessary.
Until inspection is completed, normal outbound delivery may be restricted. Therefore, when inspection is designated, delivery schedules, transport arrangements, and for export cargo, vessel schedules, may need to be adjusted early.
Additionally, sampling or content checks may be required to verify product name, material, composition, use, labeling, and similar matters. As foreign cargo at the CFS is under customs control, the shipper cannot freely unpack, remove, use, or deliver cargo solely based on their request.
| Scenario | Items to Check | Contact Points | Practical Response |
|---|---|---|---|
| Customs Inspection Designation | Inspection date and time, inspection details, need for opening and repacking | Customs broker, CFS, Customs liaison | Attend the inspection, confirm work costs and impact on delivery schedule. |
| Sample Removal | Quantity to be taken out, target cargo, customs procedures, record management | Customs broker, CFS, shipper | Confirm necessary procedures and post-removal management methods. |
| Contents Inspection | Item name, material, components, usage, labels, model numbers | Customs broker, CFS, shipper | Organize unpacking work, photographic records, repacking, and additional documentation. |
| Post-Inspection Release | Import Permit, CFS fees, release reservation, delivery arrangements | Customs broker, CFS, delivery company | After inspection completion, confirm available release time and delivery conditions. |
Relation to Delivery and Shipping Arrangements
With import cargo, after Import Permit is granted, goods are moved out from the CFS and delivered. However, Import Permit does not always mean immediate release is possible.
It is necessary to check CFS release reception hours, work congestion, release reservation, CFS fees, truck arrangements, and recipient acceptance times. Freight forwarders should confirm not just Import Permit but also the actual time cargo can be picked up.
For export cargo, after delivery into the CFS, the flow includes CFS cut-off, document cut-off, Export Permit, vanning, and vessel loading. Even after CFS delivery is completed, Export Permit or shipping schedule confirmation may still be pending.
Common Misunderstandings
CFS and bonded cargo entry frequently cause confusion regarding delivery, customs clearance, release, delivery, and shipping. Especially from the customer’s perspective, the CFS may look like a regular warehouse, so the meaning of bonded control needs to be explained clearly.
| Common Misunderstanding | Correct Perspective | Practical Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Once goods are delivered to the CFS, customs clearance is complete | Delivery into the CFS is a starting point for customs clearance and inspection, not the grant of Import Permit or Export Permit. | Explain delivery confirmation, declaration, examination, inspection, and permit as separate steps. |
| Once goods are in the CFS, they can be freely moved | Foreign cargo in the CFS remains under customs control and cannot be freely unpacked, removed, or delivered. | Confirm sample removal, contents inspection, customs inspection, and whether release is permitted. |
| Because the vessel has arrived, CFS delivery is also complete | Vessel arrival, CY delivery, CFS transfer, devanning, sorting, and delivery confirmation in the CFS are all separate steps. | For LCL cargo, there is a time lag until individual cargo can be confirmed. |
| Once Import Permit is granted, cargo can be immediately removed from the CFS | Even after Import Permit is granted, CFS fees, release reception hours, release reservations, delivery vehicles, and recipient conditions affect release. | Confirm Import Permit, release availability, and delivery capability as separate conditions. |
| For export cargo, delivery into the CFS means shipping is confirmed | After CFS delivery, export declaration, Export Permit, CFS cut-off, vanning, and shipping confirmation still remain. | Avoid confusing CFS delivery with shipping completion. |
| Delays in CFS delivery are always the freight forwarder’s fault | Causes can include vessel delay, CFS congestion, waiting for devanning, cargo information discrepancies, customs inspections, and similar factors. | Check and distinguish at which stage the delay is occurring. |
Freight Forwarder's Decision Checklist
For CFS and bonded cargo entry, separate checks are needed for import or export, whether cargo has entered the CFS, whether declaration or inspection can proceed, and whether release or shipping progression is possible.
| Checkpoint | Who to Confirm With | Items to Confirm | Actions if There Are Issues |
|---|---|---|---|
| Import / Export Classification | Shipper, Sales Representative, Customs Broker, Freight Forwarder | Whether it is import LCL or export LCL, FCL or LCL | Separate deadlines and workflow depending on whether it is import or export LCL. |
| CFS Delivery Status | CFS, NVOCC, Freight Forwarder, Customs Broker | Whether cargo has been delivered to the scheduled CFS | If delivery is incomplete, confirm the estimated arrival, transfer schedule, devanning schedule, and expected delivery to CFS. |
| Delivery Confirmation | CFS, Customs Broker, In-house Customs Department | Delivery details, cargo number, B/L, marks, quantity | If delivery information cannot be confirmed, reconcile cargo number, B/L, marks, and quantity. |
| Cargo Condition | CFS, Freight Forwarder, Shipper, Customs Broker | Damage, water damage, shortage, mark discrepancies, abnormal packaging condition | Take photos, record details, note exceptions, contact relevant parties, and check insurance. |
| Eligibility for Declaration | Customs Broker, Shipper, In-house Customs Department | Document deficiencies, HS codes, other regulatory compliance, discrepancies in cargo information | If there are document deficiencies, unresolved HS codes, or regulatory issues, resolve these first. |
| Customs Inspection Presence | Customs Broker, CFS, Customs Liaison Personnel | Inspection designation, inspection date/time, attendance, unpacking, repacking | If inspection is designated, confirm inspection date/time, attendance arrangements, unpacking, and repacking. |
| Sample Removal / Content Inspection | Customs Broker, CFS, Shipper, Customs Liaison Personnel | Whether permission is required, feasibility of work, quantity removed, record keeping, costs | Confirm necessary procedures, scope of work, record keeping, and cost responsibility. |
| CFS Charges and Handling Fees | CFS, NVOCC, Freight Forwarder, Shipper | Storage fees, handling fees, unpacking fees, repacking costs, release fees | Confirm cost start dates, payment terms, and whether the shipper bears the costs. |
| Import Cargo CFS Release | CFS, Delivery Company, Delivery Destination, Freight Forwarder | Import Permit, release reception hours, delivery vehicle, delivery destination acceptance conditions | Confirm release reception hours, delivery vehicle, and delivery destination acceptance conditions. |
| Export Cargo Loading | CFS, Shipping Line, NVOCC, Customs Broker, Freight Forwarder | CFS cut-off, document cut-off, Export Permit, feasibility of loading onto the scheduled vessel | Confirm CFS cut-off, document cut-off, and feasibility of loading onto the scheduled vessel. |
| Customer Explanation | Shipper, Sales Representative, Customs Representative, Arrangement Personnel | Distinction among delivered, under declaration, under inspection, permit granted, ready for release, and scheduled for loading | Explain the current stage and conditions for moving to the next stage. |
Common Practical Problem Cases
| Case | Common Reasons for Issues | What to Check | Freight Forwarder / Customs Operational Responses |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cannot Confirm CFS Delivery for Import LCL Cargo | After vessel arrival, CY delivery, CFS transfer, devanning, and sorting may be incomplete. | CY delivery, CFS transfer, devanning schedule, delivery information | Explain separately that the vessel has arrived and that CFS delivery has been confirmed. |
| CFS Delivered but Cannot Proceed with Import Declaration | Cargo number, B/L, marks, quantity, and document details may not match. | Delivery info, B/L, cargo number, marks, quantity | Match data with CFS, customs broker, and NVOCC and check eligibility for declaration. |
| Customs Inspection Designated Inside CFS | Customs examination may require cargo verification, unpacking, and content inspection. | Inspection date/time, inspection details, unpacking, repacking, attendance | Confirm deadlines, delivery arrangements, any charges incurred, and estimated timing of permit after inspection. |
| Exterior Damage or Quantity Shortage Discovered at CFS | Individual cargo condition may only be confirmed after devanning. | Photos, CFS records, exception notes, quantity, marks | Handle cargo incident management, check marine cargo insurance, and confirm impact on customs and delivery simultaneously. |
| CFS Release Not Possible Even After Import Permit | CFS charges, release reception time, release appointment, transport vehicle, and consignee conditions may not be coordinated. | CFS charges, release time, transport vehicle, consignee acceptance time | Separate and coordinate Import Permit, release feasibility, and transport feasibility. |
| Export LCL Cargo Misses CFS Cut-off | Late pickup, delayed packing, delayed transport, or wrong delivery location can prevent loading on the intended vessel. | CFS cut-off, cargo ETA, delivery location, loading schedule | Confirm feasibility of loading on the scheduled vessel, alternative vessels, and any additional costs. |
| Export Cargo Delivered to CFS but Loading Not Yet Confirmed | After CFS delivery, export declaration, Export Permit, vanning, CY delivery, and vessel loading confirmation still remain. | Export Permit, vanning schedule, vessel loading confirmation, B/L issuance schedule | Explain separately that CFS delivery is complete and vessel loading is confirmed. |
| Customer Mistakes CFS for a Regular Warehouse | Foreign cargo in bonded areas is under customs control and cannot be freely removed or delivered. | Bonded control, declaration status, inspection presence, permit status | Explain stages of bonded cargo entry, declaration, inspection, permit, and release. |
Practical Scenario 1: Delays in Confirming CFS Delivery for Import LCL Cargo
There are cases where customers inquire, “The vessel has arrived, so why can’t customs clearance proceed?”
For import LCL cargo, after vessel arrival, consolidated containers are delivered to the CY, then transferred to the CFS. Further, devanning and sorting must be completed at the CFS before the specific cargo can be identified individually.
At this stage, if CFS delivery confirmation has not been obtained, import declaration or delivery scheduling may not be finalized.
The freight forwarder explains separately the statuses of vessel arrival, CY delivery, CFS transfer in progress, waiting for devanning, and CFS delivery confirmation.
Practical Scenario 2: Export LCL Cargo Not Meeting CFS Cut-Off
There are cases where export LCL cargo misses the CFS cut-off due to delays in packaging or domestic delivery by the shipper.
Missing the CFS cut-off could result in failure to consolidate or load the cargo onto the scheduled vessel, potentially requiring rollover or arrangement for the next vessel.
In such cases, the freight forwarder confirms with the CFS the acceptance status, whether loading onto the scheduled vessel is still possible, alternative vessel options, additional costs, and impact on document cut-off.
It is necessary to explain to the customer that CFS delivery and shipment confirmation are distinct stages, and exceeding the CFS cut-off may directly affect shipment.
Practical Scenario 3: Customs Inspection Designated Within CFS
After CFS delivery and completion of import or export declaration, customs inspections may be designated for the cargo.
Depending on the inspection content, unpacking, content verification, photographing, repacking, and inspection attendance within the CFS may be required.
Until the inspection is completed, export cargo shipment arrangements or import cargo release from the CFS may be affected.
The freight forwarder coordinates with the customs broker, CFS, shipper, delivery company, and, if necessary, the shipping line or NVOCC to organize inspection schedule, costs, and impact on deadlines.
Practical Scenario 4: Misunderstanding CFS as a Regular Warehouse
There are cases where the shipper requests, "Since the cargo is in the CFS, I want to check the contents a bit," or "I want to take out part of it in advance."
However, cargo in the CFS is under customs control, so unpacking, removal, usage, or delivery cannot be freely conducted based solely on the shipper’s wishes.
If sample removal, content inspection, examination, or modification is needed, it is necessary to confirm with the customs broker and CFS the possibility of procedures, scope of work, record management, and costs.
The freight forwarder explains that CFS is not a regular warehouse but an operational base under bonded control.
Points to Explain to Customers
It is necessary to explain to customers that CFS delivery represents a stage toward customs clearance and cargo release, but does not mean completion of customs clearance or readiness for delivery.
For import LCL cargo, breaking down statuses such as "vessel arrived," "CY delivered," "CFS transfer in progress," "waiting for devanning," "CFS delivery confirmed," "import declaration in process," "Import Permit granted," and "CFS release arrangement in progress" helps customers better understand the situation.
For export LCL cargo, it is important to separate the explanations for CFS delivery and shipment, using stages like "collected," "CFS delivery scheduled," "CFS delivered," "export declaration in process," "Export Permit granted," "vanning scheduled," and "scheduled vessel confirmation in progress."
Simply stating "cargo has arrived at the CFS" may cause customers to misunderstand that customs clearance is complete, release is allowed, or shipment is finalized. Explaining the current stage and conditions for the next step is practically important.
Practical Points to Note
Cargo delivered to the CFS is treated as being under customs control. It cannot be freely unpacked, withdrawn, or shipped solely based on the shipper’s request.
If sample removal, content inspection, sorting, or modification is required, it is necessary to check the cargo condition, CFS’s acceptance of such actions, required procedures, and record management. Especially for cargo before Import Permit is granted, treating it like domestic cargo may cause trouble.
Also, at the CFS, issues such as cargo damage, quantity discrepancies, mark mismatches, document deficiencies, inspection designation, and CFS storage charges may simultaneously arise. The freight forwarder needs to manage the CFS not just as a delivery location, but as a practical base linking customs, inspections, damage verification, release, and shipment.
Summary
CFS and bonded cargo entry are important operational points for processing customs clearance, inspections, delivery, and shipment of LCL cargo. Only after cargo has been delivered to the CFS and delivery confirmation is obtained do customs clearance and subsequent arrangements concretely proceed.
This article organizes CFS as a general overview spanning import and export. For detailed flow of import LCL cargo delivery, refer to "CFS Delivery"; for pickup after Import Permit, see "CFS Release"; for bonded area systems overall, check "Bonded Area."
It is important not to rely solely on vessel arrival or CFS delivery as indicators, but to confirm as a series the delivery confirmation, declaration feasibility, inspection designation, permit, release timing, and for export cargo, shipment feasibility.
Proper understanding of CFS and bonded cargo entry helps clarify at which stage the LCL cargo is held and what should be checked next.
