Booking a slot, step by step
The trucking company registers with the terminal's system and books each move against a container number or booking. Slots come in time windows with a limited number of trucks per window. Some terminals let a driver combine moves on one visit, such as dropping an empty and collecting an import, and some require that pairing during busy periods. Each terminal sets its own rules on how far ahead slots open.
Ready to book an import pickup
An appointment only helps if the container can actually leave. Many systems check some of these conditions when the slot is booked, and the gate checks again when the truck arrives. A slot booked too early can be wasted if a release is still missing, while one booked late may not exist at all when the terminal is busy. Export drop-offs have their own checks, usually an open booking and the receiving window.
- The container is discharged and shown as available
- Customs and carrier releases are in place
- Any storage or terminal fees owed are paid
- A chassis and a driver are lined up for the window
Scarce slots and the last free day
When a port is busy, appointment slots can run out before free time does. A container that is available on Monday but cannot get a slot until Friday may run into storage charges through no fault of the trucker. Record each failed attempt with dates and screenshots, ask about free time extensions early, and book the empty return slot as part of the same plan.
Example
A dispatcher books a morning appointment to collect a container at Long Beach, but a customs hold has not cleared, so the terminal will not release the box and the slot has to be rebooked.
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Questions
What does Terminal Appointment mean?
A terminal appointment is a booked time window for a truck to pick up or drop off a container at a terminal or depot. Many busy terminals require one for each move, such as an import pickup, an export delivery or an empty return.
Do all terminals require truck appointments?
No. Practice varies by port and terminal. Some require appointments for every move, others only at busy times or for certain transactions, so check each terminal's current rules.
What happens if a truck misses its appointment?
Rules differ. The driver may be turned away or given a short grace period, and some terminals charge or restrict trucking companies that repeatedly miss slots. The move usually has to be rebooked.