ETD

Estimated Time of Departure (ETD) is a core term in foreign trade and logistics, referring to the expected time when goods or a means of transport are scheduled to leave the port or place of departure. It is usually provided by the carrier (shipping line, airline, or freight forwarder) based on the sailing schedule, flight plan, or transport arrangement, to inform the shipper, consignee, customs broker, and other parties. Usage scenarios include booking confirmation, shipping advice, and letter of credit document presentation. Note: ETD is an estimated time and may be delayed due to weather, port congestion, mechanical failure, etc., so the Actual Time of Departure (ATD) may differ. In contrast to ETA (Estimated Time of Arrival), ETD focuses on departure while ETA focuses on arrival. It differs from Closing Time, which is the deadline by which goods must complete customs declaration and be loaded on board. In letter of credit transactions, if a shipment period is stipulated, the ETD usually needs to fall within the shipment period, but banks pay more attention to the actual shipment date on the bill of lading. Therefore, foreign trade practitioners should closely monitor changes in ETD, promptly notify customers, and adjust subsequent arrangements.