How to track Import and Export Shipments and its benefits

For, Import and Export business, it is imperative for Importers and Exporters to understand movement of cargo which is very vital for them to make further planning, decisions and avoid issues related to shipments.

Here, I will explain in detail how we can track shipment status and movement of cargo whether in containerized or break bulk shipment.

Containers

First of all, we have to check our bills of lading which shows name of Shipping line like Maersk, MSC, CMA CGM etc. We can use Bills of Lading numbers, Container number or booking number for tracking as specified in the search column.

Here is some links for shipping lines for tracking :-

Maersk : https://www.maersk.com/tracking/

MSC : https://www.msc.com/en

CMA CGM : https://www.cma-cgm.com/ebusiness/tracking

If shipment is done by some other shipping lines, its tacking option can be located at their website.

Track result will show following details:

Containers gate in date, date of loading in vessel & vessel name, detail of transshipment where containers discharged for loading in other vessel, when containers loaded in transshipment, arrival date at discharge port, when containers arrived at discharge port, Containers gate out date by consignee etc.

Breakbulks

In breakbulk shipment, we need to track position of vessel where she is at present moment rather tracking it by Bills of lading number which is containerized shipment case.

We can locate a vessel by below tracking website which gives almost perfect idea about vessel movement.

Marine traffic : https://www.marinetraffic.com

In this website we can search vessel by putting vessel name in search field like MV XYZ.

Track result will show following details:

Vessel present position with longitude and latitude, whether vessel in berth or in sea. Her loading date and Estimated time of Arrival (ETA) at discharge port etc

Benefit of tracking 

• Gives Importer and Exporter a clear picture about ETD and ETA for Containers/Vessels.

•  For Exporter to maintain latest shipment date. 

• Importers can appoint their CHA or handling agents for clear the cargo in time to avoid any demurrage and detention. 

• Importer can plan their payment schedule as per arrival of cargo or as per payment terms agreed in contract. 

• There are several times when containers are kept in transshipment port for a longer time. If an exporter/importer is tracking the schedule they can communicate with shipping line for early movement of containers. When goods are perishable in nature, then it is very important for Exporters/ Importers to properly follow us containers departure and arrival schedule.