CY Cut-off Date

CY Cut-off Date refers to the deadline set by the carrier by which the container must be returned to the designated terminal or yard, usually earlier than the vessel's Estimated Time of Departure (ETD). Usage scenario: After booking, the exporter must complete stuffing, trucking, and return the container to the terminal before the CY cut-off date; otherwise, it cannot be loaded onto the vessel, potentially incurring rebooking fees, demurrage/detention charges, or even delayed delivery. Notes: The CY cut-off date may vary by shipping line, route, and port, and is often confused with the SI Cut-off (Shipping Instruction Cut-off) and Customs Cut-off. The SI Cut-off is the deadline for submitting shipping instructions and other documents, while the Customs Cut-off is the deadline for customs release. The typical sequence is Customs Cut-off → SI Cut-off → CY Cut-off, but the specific order is subject to the carrier's notice. Difference from ETD: ETD is the sailing date, and the CY cut-off date is earlier than the ETD. Foreign trade practitioners should confirm the CY cut-off date with the freight forwarder in advance, allow sufficient time for trucking and customs clearance, and avoid rolling over due to missing the cut-off.