Closing Time (Cut-off)
Closing time is the last moment a full container may gate in at the terminal and still be loaded on a given vessel. Besides the cargo cut-off there are SI and VGM cut-offs, which are often earlier. Times are set by the line and terminal, often around 24–48 hours before berthing, but they vary; always check the booking confirmation. A late box is usually rolled to the next vessel and may pick up extra storage charges.
Related terms
- Booking Confirmation
A booking confirmation is the carrier's written confirmation that space on a vessel has been allocated.
- Shipping Instruction (SI)
A shipping instruction is the shipper's instruction to the carrier or forwarder from which the B/L is prepared.
- VGM (Verified Gross Mass)
VGM is the verified gross mass of a packed container, mandatory under SOLAS Chapter VI Regulation 2 since 1 July 2016.
- Port of Loading (POL)
The port of loading (POL) is the port where cargo is loaded onto the main ocean vessel named on the B/L, for example Tanjung Priok (IDTPP) or Tanjung Perak (IDSUB).
Covered in these guides
How to Choose a Port of Loading: Criteria, Costs and a Worked Comparison
How to choose a port of loading for exports, weighing trucking cost, sailing frequency, direct calls, closing time, depots, congestion, reefer, OOG and customs services.
5 min read PortsMajor Container Ports in Indonesia: List, UN/LOCODEs and Terminals
The main container ports in Indonesia, from Tanjung Priok, Tanjung Perak and Belawan to Makassar, with UN/LOCODEs, key terminals and how hub-and-feeder routing works.
6 min read Maritime professionalsVGM under SOLAS: Methods 1 and 2, Responsibilities and a Worked Example
A practical SOLAS VGM guide for shippers in Indonesia covering methods 1 and 2, shipper responsibility, cut-off, a worked container example and common mistakes.
5 min read Export-importExport and Import Documents in Indonesia: What You Need, Who Issues It, When
A practical guide to Indonesian export and import documents, from invoice, packing list and B/L to SKA, PEB/NPE, PIB/SPPB, quarantine certificates and the DO.
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