CY to CFS (Container Yard to Container Freight Station) is a common term in international trade and maritime container transport. It means the carrier receives a full container load (FCL) at the origin container yard (CY), transports it to the destination container freight station (CFS), where the container is devanned and the loose cargo is delivered. Usage scenarios: applicable when the shipper needs to send a full container of goods to multiple consignees, or when the consignee is unable to receive a full container and requires devanning and distribution at the CFS. Notes: under this term, the carrier's responsibility runs from receipt of the goods at the CY to delivery after devanning at the CFS; the shipper must ensure proper stuffing compliance; the consignee must pick up the goods at the CFS promptly, otherwise storage charges may be incurred. Differences from other terms: CY to CY is full container handover, CFS to CFS is LCL handover, while CY to CFS combines full container transport with devanning service, offering both flexibility and cost efficiency. Foreign trade practitioners should clarify cost allocation, liability boundaries, and the delivery process after devanning to avoid extra costs caused by devanning delays.
📝 Examples
1. We exported a batch of machinery and equipment to Hamburg under CY to CFS terms. The carrier received the full container at the Shanghai container yard, and after devanning at the Hamburg freight station, our customer picked up different components in three separate batches. (Note: full container transport to the destination station for devanning, facilitating pickup by multiple consignees)
2. According to the contract, this batch of goods is shipped on CY to CFS basis. The freight includes transport from the origin port container yard to the destination port container freight station and devanning charges. The consignee must bear storage and inland transport costs after devanning. (Note: clarifying cost and responsibility allocation to avoid disputes)
💡 Foreign Trade Tips
Foreign trade terms are the foundation of international business communication
Trade practices may vary slightly by country; pay attention when using them
When using terms in contracts, specify the applicable version (e.g., Incoterms 2020)
For unfamiliar terms, use GlobalSync's multilingual email helper to confirm with your partner