Part 3 · Running the move · Recipe 16 of 22

Return the empty or street turn it

The move is not over until the empty is back. Per diem runs until then.

Jonathan Sinton Jonathan Sinton · Checked November 14, 2026

You need

  • The ocean carrier's empty return instructions
  • An appointment, if the terminal wants one
  • For a street turn: an export booking with the same carrier

Steps

  1. Check where it goes todayReturn locations change. Look on the day you return, not the day you picked up.
  2. Book the returnMany terminals take empties only by appointment, and only some sizes and carriers each day.
  3. Pair it with a pickupDrop the empty and take a loaded box in the same visit. That is a dual transaction and it saves a trip.
  4. Or reuse the boxA street turn puts the import empty straight onto an export booking. Ask the ocean carrier to approve it first.
  5. Keep the gate-in interchangeIt stops the per diem clock.

Watch out

A street turn without the carrier's approval leaves the box on the wrong record.
Some carriers charge a fee for a street turn.

Look it up

Empty return Street turn Dual transaction Per diem pass-through

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