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Tracking Container Online – All In One

Track container shipping line online.Enter Bill Of Lading (BOL) number to extract latest vessel shipment status.

Container numbers should have the format ABCU1234567, you can check shipping line prefix code from the below useful link.

Container tracking refers to the process of tracking the movement of shipping containers from their origin to their destination. The use of container tracking has become increasingly important in recent years as global trade has expanded and the movement of goods has become more complex.

There are various methods and technologies used for container tracking, including:

  1. GPS Tracking: GPS (Global Positioning System) tracking is one of the most popular methods used for container tracking. It involves the use of GPS devices that are attached to the containers, which transmit location data to a central tracking system. This allows shippers and logistics providers to monitor the movement of containers in real-time.
  2. RFID Tracking: RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) is another technology used for container tracking. It involves the use of RFID tags that are attached to the containers, which can be scanned using RFID readers to obtain location data. RFID tracking is generally used for short-range tracking, such as within a terminal or warehouse.
  3. Barcode Tracking: Barcode tracking involves the use of barcodes that are attached to the containers, which can be scanned using handheld devices to obtain location data. Barcode tracking is a low-cost option, but it requires manual scanning, which can be time-consuming.
  4. Electronic Data Interchange (EDI): EDI is a technology used for the exchange of business documents, such as purchase orders and invoices, between trading partners. EDI can also be used for container tracking, as it allows for the exchange of information about container movements between different parties.

There are different terms associated with container tracking that you might come across, such as:

  • Bill of Lading (B/L or BoL) – A legal document issued by a carrier to a shipper, detailing the type, quantity, and destination of the goods being carried. It serves as a receipt for the shipped goods and evidence of the contract of carriage.
  • Container Number – A unique identification number assigned to each shipping container, typically following the ISO 6346 standard, which allows for tracking the container throughout its journey.
  • Vessel Name/IMO Number – Vessel name refers to the name of the ship carrying the container, while the IMO number is a unique identifier assigned to every sea-going vessel for identification and tracking purposes.
  • Estimated Time of Arrival (ETA) – The date and time at which a shipment is expected to arrive at its destination.
  • Estimated Time of Departure (ETD) – The date and time at which a shipment is expected to leave its origin port or facility.
  • Port of Loading (POL) – The port where a shipping container is loaded onto a vessel for transportation.
  • Transshipment – The process of transferring a container from one vessel to another during its journey to its final destination. This often occurs at transshipment hubs or ports.
  • Demurrage – A fee charged by the shipping company for the extended use of their container at the destination port beyond the agreed-upon free time. This fee is usually charged on a per-day basis.
  • Detention – A fee charged by the shipping company for the extended use of their container outside the port or terminal after the allowed free time. Like demurrage, this fee is usually charged on a per-day basis.
  • Terminal Handling Charges (THC) – Fees associated with handling containers at ports and terminals. These charges cover the costs of loading and unloading containers, as well as moving them within the port or terminal facility.
  • Freight Forwarder – A company or individual that specializes in organizing the shipment of goods on behalf of a shipper. Freight forwarders typically work with multiple carriers to find the best rates and routes for their clients.
  • Shipping Line – A company that operates a fleet of vessels and provides shipping services to transport goods across the ocean.
  • Customs Clearance – The process by which goods are cleared for entry or exit by the customs authorities of a country. This includes the submission of necessary documents, payment of duties and taxes, and inspection of the goods when required.
Importer of Record (IOR) - The party responsible for ensuring that imported goods comply with all relevant regulations and for paying any applicable duties, taxes, and fees in the destination country.

Exporter of Record (EOR) - The party responsible for ensuring that exported goods comply with all relevant regulations and for providing necessary documentation in the country of origin.

Inland Container Depot (ICD) - A facility that is located inland (away from the port) for handling and storing containers. ICDs serve as an intermediate point between the port and the final destination, allowing for easier and more efficient transportation of containers to and from the port.

Container Freight Station (CFS) - A facility where cargo is consolidated or deconsolidated from shipping containers, typically located near ports or inland container depots.

Intermodal Transportation - The process of moving cargo using multiple modes of transportation, such as trucks, trains, and ships, without any handling of the goods themselves when changing modes. This often involves the use of containers, which are designed to be easily transferred between different transportation modes.

Track and Trace - A system used by shipping companies, freight forwarders, and other logistics service providers to provide real-time updates on the location and status of a shipment throughout its journey. This allows both shippers and consignees to monitor their cargo and make informed decisions about their supply

Container tracking provides various benefits, such as improved visibility and control over supply chain operations, reduced risk of theft or loss of cargo, and increased efficiency in logistics operations. It also enables shippers and logistics providers to provide better customer service by providing accurate and timely information about the movement of goods.

How to avoid shipping line tracking related issues?

  • Get container tracking number from the shipping documents and do not use any other number with it.
  • Before submitting the tracking code in track trace box, please recheck whether you have entered the exact code or not
  • Do not add any special character like “_” “+””/” or white space
  • Container prefix code should be matched otherwise you will get blank record error
  • Wait at least 24 hrs to track the shipment number online
  • For any reason, if tracking server down, please check back later
  • If you get the blank page, we highly recommend type number manually.

Some useful links may help you

Check digit calculator