What documents are required to collect a container from a port terminal?

Three documents are required before a port terminal releases a container to a drayage carrier: a delivery order or container release confirmation issued by the shipping line, a confirmed terminal gate appointment reference, and proof that customs clearance is complete. All three must be confirmed before the truck reaches the terminal gate. A missing document at the gate results in the truck turning back empty — triggering a failed collection charge from the carrier and resetting the entire booking. Clearance delays that push collection past the free time deadline also trigger demurrage, regardless of whether the truck was ready and waiting.