Logistics terms · Logistics terms

What does Container stuffing and destuffing mean in logistics?

Short answer

Stuffing is loading cargo into a container; destuffing is unloading it. How cargo is stowed, braced and sealed determines both damage risk and customs treatment.

Export containers are either factory-stuffed at the exporter’s premises under self-sealing with an RFID e-seal, or stuffed at a CFS or ICD under customs supervision. Import containers are destuffed at a CFS or at the importer’s premises under direct port delivery. Ask our desk how this applies to your consignment.

Period: General definition. Data as of 29 Sep 2026. How we count

We publish no freight rates. Our desk confirms your price within minutes.

The numbers behind this answer

Also called
stuffing, destuffing, de-stuffing
Category
EXIM & customs
Related terms
Container freight station (CFS), Direct port entry (DPE), FCL (full container load), LCL (less than container load)

Sources

  1. SSL logistics glossary

Period: General definition. Data as of 29 Sep 2026.

Need this for your own load?

Send the details to our desk. It confirms your price within minutes.

Chat with SSL

Talk to a person