What is Freight Container Devanning

`For FCLs (full container loads), this is normally done at the company’s warehouse after the freight container is picked up from the port. For LCLs (less than container loads), they may go through deconsolidation in a type of warehouse called a CFS (container freight station). Deconsolidation is the action of separating LCL shipments in a shared container before moving them to the final destination. There are different tools used to unload containers such as forklifts, Conveyers, Pallets, etc.

What May Go Wrong

During the devanning process, several aspects can go wrong and delay the process. Once the freight reaches the warehouse, trained lumpers or handlers begin unpackaging the freight carefully. It is important that the unloading is done carefully not only for the condition of the goods but for the safety of the people handling the freight. If the goods are mishandled and damaged, it can be costly to the shippers and disrupt the entire supply chain. As for the handlers, injuries can happen if they are not careful. This is because they are using technology and manual handling to move large amounts of weight.

How Is the Cost Calculated

When calculating the cost for unloading freight, numerous components can come into the picture. The price for unloading a container can range from around $150 up for a 20ft container and around $190 up for a 40ft container. These prices are an estimate and may vary depending on different factors. The transportation costs that are included tend to be determined by the distance that the warehouse is from the pickup area. The further the warehouse, the higher the transportation costs may be.

The amount of freight that has to be unloaded may also impact the costs. For example, a 40ft container with 500 cases may cost less to unload than a 40ft container with 1000 cases. This is because the amount of equipment and labor force necessary can be higher. The wait time for the lumpers or the people doing the unloading may be included. Separate companies may have different fees associated with unloading, meaning that it is important to research to get an exact quote.

What Comes After

When the freight is unloaded from the container, it may either be placed in the warehouse for storage or distributed to the final destination. The shipper may store their freight in a warehouse for packing and picking or just as extra inventory. If the freight is stored in a bonded warehouse, it can stay for five years before taxes and duties need to be paid. When the goods are moved to the final destination, this is sometimes referred to as the final mile. This is when the freight is dispatched to the client themselves or a business to be sold. The goods must be safely secured during their journey.

A1 Worldwide Logistics

Devanning, like warehousing, shipping, and customs clearance all tend to be part of the bigger supply chain picture. All may be considered high levels of importance and if one part goes wrong it may affect the whole supply chain. A1 Worldwide Logistics is aware of this and provides different services to assist with your company’s supply chain. This way, you can focus on other parts of your business while comfortably knowing that your supply chain is handled. Call us at 305-821-8995 to find out more information.