What is an "Off-Dock Yard" & How Does It Affect Container Pickup Efficiency?

Normally, full and empty containers are stored within port terminals. So why do off-dock yards (external yards) exist? And why does pickup sometimes take hours, while other times it drags on for days? Today, we break down the relationship between container yards and pickup efficiency!

1. Container Yards & Pickup Speed

What is a Container Yard?

A container yard (CY) is a storage area inside or near a port where containers are temporarily held for loading/unloading. Import cargo stays here until pickup.

Why Does Pickup Speed Vary?

✅ Priority at Dedicated Terminals:

• Some shipping lines (e.g., CMA CGM’s EXX service at TraPac terminal) have exclusive yards, ensuring faster berthing, unloading, and pickup.

• Public terminals face congestion, slowing down operations.

✅ Chassis Availability (Critical in the U.S.):

• In the U.S., truck heads and chassis are separate.

• During peak seasons, shortages of matching chassis delay pickups.

2. On-Dock vs. Off-Dock Yards: Key Differences

Off-Dock Yard Storage Methods:

① Wheeled Storage (Fast Pickup)

• Containers are pre-mounted on chassis.

• Truckers only need a tractor head for instant pickup.

• No appointment needed—ideal for urgent cargo.

② Ground Storage (Slow Pickup)

• Containers are stacked on the ground.

• No RTGs: Only reach stackers (which can only lift the top container).

• Delays occur due to:

• Waiting for chassis.

• Locating the correct box in stacks.

• Manual unloading processes.

3. How Off-Dock Yards Impact Efficiency?

✔ Pros:

• Reduces port congestion by moving overflow containers outside.

• Wheeled storage speeds up trucker turnarounds.

✖ Cons:

• Ground storage adds hours (or days) to pickup times.

• Limited equipment (reach stackers vs. RTGs) slows operations.

• Chassis mismatches (especially in the U.S.) worsen delays.

Key Takeaways for Shippers:

If speed matters, request wheeled storage at off-dock yards.
Track chassis availability in the U.S. during peak seasons.
For VIP cargo, prioritize carriers with dedicated terminal access.