CY/FO, CY/CY, CY/LO & Other Container Delivery Terms: Definitions & Differences
Publish Time: 2026-01-26 Origin: Site
In international container shipping, delivery terms starting with CY (Container Yard, meaning container stack yard) specify the scope of responsibility of the carrier for cargo pick-up, transportation, and delivery. Below are the detailed definitions of common terms including CY/CY, CY/FO, CY/LO, CY/TACKLE, and CY/HOOK:
| Term | Full Name | Core Definition | Carrier's Responsibility Scope |
|---|---|---|---|
| CY/CY | Container Yard to Container Yard | Yard-to-yard delivery method | The carrier receives full-container-load (FCL) cargo at the container yard of the port of loading, is responsible for transporting it to the container yard of the port of discharge, and delivers the full container to the consignee. The carrier is responsible for both loading and unloading operations related to the container in the yard. |
| CY/FO | Container Yard to Free Out | Yard-to-discharge port (unloading not included) | The carrier receives FCL cargo at the container yard of the port of loading and transports it to the port of discharge, but does not take responsibility for the unloading operation of the container at the destination. The unloading cost and risk are borne by the consignee. |
| CY/LO | Container Yard to Line Out | Yard-to-discharge port (unloading included) | The carrier receives FCL cargo at the container yard of the port of loading, transports it to the port of discharge, and is responsible for the unloading operation of the container at the destination. The unloading cost is included in the freight. |
| CY/TACKLE | Container Yard to Tackle | Yard-to-delivery truck unloading | The carrier receives FCL cargo at the container yard of the port of loading, transports it to the port of discharge, and unloads the container onto the consignee's pickup truck (the operation is completed by the carrier's crane). |
| CY/HOOK | Container Yard to Hook | Yard-to-crane drop-off | The carrier receives FCL cargo at the container yard of the port of loading and transports it to the port of discharge, and unloads the container by crane. The service ends immediately after the crane lifts the cargo and drops it off (the carrier is not responsible for placing the cargo accurately or subsequent handling). |
Core Difference Summary
The key difference between these terms lies in the end point of the carrier's responsibility and whether it includes the unloading operation at the port of discharge. In practical business, choosing the appropriate term directly affects the division of freight costs and operational risks between the shipper, carrier, and consignee.