CY Closing

CY Closing refers to the deadline for a container ship to stop accepting export containers at a designated port, usually announced by the shipping line or terminal. Before this time, the cargo owner must deliver the container to the designated container yard (CY); otherwise, it cannot be loaded onto the vessel. Usage scenario: When exporters arrange trucking, customs declaration, and port entry, they must closely monitor the CY closing time to avoid delays. Notes: CY closing time is often different from customs cutoff (the deadline for customs release) and SI cutoff (the deadline for submitting bill of lading information), and may vary by shipping line, route, and port; it may be advanced during peak season or due to weather, so it is necessary to confirm with the freight forwarder in advance. Difference from customs cutoff: Customs cutoff is the final deadline for customs to accept declaration and release, usually earlier than or equal to CY closing; CY closing is the physical port entry deadline, later than customs cutoff. If the cargo has not entered the port before CY closing, even if it has been released, it cannot be loaded and can only be rebooked. Therefore, foreign trade practitioners should reserve buffer time and track schedule changes in real time.