What Is Space Release?

Space Release refers to the process where the carrier reviews a booking request submitted by a freight forwarder, verifies the freight rate and sailing details, and formally allocates vessel space.
In practice, this means the carrier has approved the booking and confirmed space availability for the shipment.

It is similar to reserving a seat on a flight—once the carrier confirms the booking, the space on the vessel is secured.

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What Is Container Release?

Container Release takes place after the booking and vessel space have been confirmed. Once the carrier finalizes the booking, they will issue a Shipping Order (S/O) or Equipment Interchange Receipt (EIR).
The freight forwarder uses this document to pick up empty containers from the designated depot for loading.

In simple terms, space release confirms the vessel slot, while container release provides the authorization needed to collect the empty container.

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Space Release Procedure

1. Submission of Booking Request

The shipper or freight forwarder submits booking details to the carrier, including:
    •    Cargo description, weight, volume, and container type/quantity
    •    Port of loading (POL) and port of discharge (POD)
    •    Estimated time of departure/arrival (ETD/ETA)
    •    Special requirements such as DG cargo, reefer settings, OOG specifications, etc.

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2. Vessel Space Confirmation

The carrier reviews available space and, upon approval, issues:
    •    Booking Confirmation / Space Release Notice
    •    Vessel/Voyage information
    •    Bill of Lading number (B/L No.)
    •    CY Closing and ETD
    •    Validity period for container pickup and loading

Some services may require prepayment of ocean freight or a booking deposit.

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3. Subsequent Arrangements

After space release, the shipper or freight forwarder may proceed with:
    •    Applying for container release
    •    Arranging trucking
    •    Customs declaration
    •    Container loading and terminal gate-in

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Container Release Procedure

1. Booking Finalized

The carrier confirms the booking and allocates container equipment.

2. Application for Container Release

The forwarder submits a request with:
    •    Booking number
    •    Container type and quantity
    •    Preferred pickup depot

In some cases, a container deposit or financial guarantee may be required.

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3. Issuance of Shipping Order (S/O) or EIR

The carrier or terminal issues the official release document containing:
    •    Container number(s)
    •    Vessel/Voyage
    •    Pickup and return depot
    •    Validity dates for empty pickup and full return

This document is the legal authorization for container collection.

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4. Empty Container Pickup

The trucker presents the release order at the designated depot, inspects the equipment condition, and signs the EIR to confirm receipt.

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5. Loading and Full Container Return

The empty container is transported to the factory for stuffing.
Once loaded, the full container is returned to the terminal or designated CY according to the carrier’s requirements.

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Common Operational Questions

1. Does space release equal container release?

No. Space release confirms the vessel slot only. Container availability must be verified separately via container release.

2. Can specific container or seal numbers be requested?

Some carriers allow this, depending on equipment availability and operational constraints.

3. Why does the ETD on the S/O keep changing?

Any adjustment to the vessel schedule will result in an updated S/O from the carrier.

4. Why is a confirmed space cancelled or postponed after loading arrangements?

This usually occurs due to vessel overbooking or operational disruptions, leading to rolled shipments or delayed sailings.

5. Why is space release delayed after submitting a booking request?

Possible reasons include unconfirmed freight rates, incomplete booking information, or insufficient vessel space.

6. Should booking information changes be reported after space release?

Yes. Any change—especially regarding sensitive cargo, hazardous goods, or LCL weight/volume—must be reported immediately, as it may affect carrier approval and customs compliance.



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