CFS/CFS (Container Freight Station to Container Freight Station)

CFS/CFS (Container Freight Station to Container Freight Station) is a handover method in international container transport. It means the carrier receives LCL cargo at the origin CFS, is responsible for stuffing, transports it to the destination CFS, de-stuffs, and delivers to the consignee. It applies to small-volume cargo less than a full container (LCL), i.e., cargo from multiple shippers consolidated into one container. It is mostly used when the shipper does not have a full container load and wants to save freight. Notes: cargo must be consolidated at the CFS; the carrier handles stuffing and de-stuffing; the cargo owner does not touch the container; risk is divided at the CFS, i.e., the carrier is responsible from receipt at origin CFS until delivery at destination CFS. Difference from CY/CY (full container handover): under CY/CY the cargo owner stuffs and de-stuffs, and the carrier is not responsible for the contents. Difference from Door/Door: the latter involves door pickup and delivery. Under CFS/CFS, the shipper must ensure the packaging is suitable for LCL and be aware that mixing cargo from different shippers may cause cross-contamination or delay.