Read the paperwork

You need

• Delivery order
• Bill of lading or booking number
• Interchange receipt from the gate
• Proof of delivery
• Scale ticket, for heavy loads

Steps

1. 1 Start with the delivery orderIt tells you what to pull, from where, to where and by when. Check the container number, the pickup terminal and the last free day.
2. 2 Match it to the bill of ladingThe bill of lading number is what the terminal and the ocean carrier use. You need it to check holds and to dispute charges later.
3. 3 Keep both interchange receiptsOne when you gate out, one when you gate in. They record the time and the condition of the box and chassis.
4. 4 Get the proof of delivery signedAsk for the arrival time and the departure time, not only a signature.
5. 5 File all of it under the container numberEvery dispute starts with someone asking for one of these.

Watch out

Look it up