Returning empty containers are an integral and complicated, most of the time, part of container shipping, especially if your customers ship with MSC (Mediterranean Shipping Company). Understanding their empty return process can save customers from extra detention charges or delays for their future shipments, read this blog and we’ll detail exactly how MSC ‘s empty return works and how Shipsgo can assist your efforts at optimizing container management.
What is MSC (Mediterranean Shipping Company) Empty Return?
Empty return means that returning an empty MSC container back to one of their designated return locations after your cargo has been unloaded at its final destination port or terminal; to prevent incurring extra charges. Empty Return locations vary by country port service provider as per MSC policies governing return locations for empties containers.
Why is Empty Return Information Important?
Failing or delaying to return empty containers promptly can result in costly detention fees, reduced container availability for future shipments and disputes between cargo owners, freight forwarders and shipping lines. Knowing where and when your MSC container should be returned helps:
- Reduce costs.
- Keep your supply chain running efficiently.
- Maintain positive relations with carriers and logistics partners.
How Can You Locate MSC Empty Return Locations?
MSC lets both shipper and forwarder know when their shipment has reached its designated empty return depot based on port congestion, equipment imbalance or operational concerns; this information could sometimes change based on port activity, equipment imbalance or operational concerns.
Empty Return Process
A step-by-step explanation:
- Cargo Unloading: Deliver goods directly to their final consignee; container is emptyened.
- Inspection & Cleaning: Inspect container for any damages or contamination before cleaning may be needed depending on cargo type.
- Return Authorization: Before returning an empty container back, obtain approval from MSC of its return location and confirm its empty return location.
- Delivery to Depot/Port: Bring it directly to one of MSC’s depot or terminal facilities.
- Confirm Your Equipment Return: (Gate In Receipt or EIR, Equipment Interchange Receipt). As proof of return, obtain either an equipment interchange receipt (Gate In or EIR).
How to Avoid Detention Charges with MSC
- Always verify empty return locations prior to transporting an empty container from its place of storage to its empty return destination, especially during busy ports or peak shipping seasons.
- Planner transport early is advised in these circumstances and ensure that stamped paperwork or electronic proof can be provided as proof.
- Consider Shipsgo tracking to keep an eye on the container from its initial departure to empty return.
Shipsgo & Empty Return Information
With Shipsgo, you can track MSC containers real-time and stay informed on estimated arrival times, carrier reliability and port congestion to better plan empty return, reduce costs and enhance supply chain efficiency.
Shipsgo provides extensive tracking information regarding Empty Container In and Empty Container Return dates, which is readily available upon request and can help streamline logistics operations.
- Reduce Detention Costs: Always double-check return dates in order to prevent unexpected detention charges from accruing.
- Improve Analysis: Expand your insights into all facets of container cycle planning for better planning.
- Minimize Disputes: Provide proof of container return timing whenever required.
For empty container return and empty in dates contact Shipsgo Support via support@shipsgo.com.
