How Port Loading and Unloading Works

A key part of any logistics operation is the loading and unloading processes at the port. This involves a long series of activities, including stevedoring, cargodoring, and receiving or delivering.

Some procedures must also be followed before the cargo containers can be moved from one location to another. There are several steps and necessary documents that must be completed to ensure a smooth process.

7 Steps in the Port Loading and Unloading Process

1. Vessel and Port Preparation 

Vessel preparation involves cleaning the ship of waste and debris, checking the availability of loading and unloading equipment, and getting the crew ready. Meanwhile, port preparation includes checking for the necessary equipment and personnel to handle the cargo.

2. Ship Arrival Notification

The ship’s agent provides the notification to the port authority. This notification must be sent at least 24 hours prior to the ship’s scheduled arrival.

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3. Document Verification

Port security personnel conduct this verification to ensure that all ship and cargo documents for unloading are complete. Among the documents checked are Cargo Manifest (SKM), Bill of Lading (B/L), and Packing list.

4. Physical Inspection

Cargo handling staff perform this step to check the condition before they are unloaded. Any damaged or faulty goods must be promptly reported to the responsible authority.

5. Loading and Unloading Process

This activity is carried out by loading and unloading staff using the equipment available at the port. All unloaded goods must be placed in their designated areas.

6. Cargo Groupage

This process is handled by loading and unloading staff to guarantee the safety and efficiency of loading and unloading operations at the port. Goods that have been unloaded must be placed in a secure location and organized by type.

7. Goods Handover

Conducted by loading and unloading staff, this process involves handing over the goods to the authorized party. The handed-over goods must match the existing documents.

Other documents are also required, such as those for the goods loading and unloading process, as well as clearance for in and out.

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Essential Equipment for Loading and Unloading

Besides comprehensive documents and loading/unloading procedures, it’s also crucial to consider the heavy machinery required to transfer goods between the ship and land or vice versa. These include:

• Quay Container Crane (QCC)

• Shiploader and Ship unloader

• Container Reach Stacker

• Empty Container Stacker

• Container Spreader

• Floating Crane, and

• Rubber Tyred Container Gantry Crane (RTG)

A Quay Container Crane (QCC), also known as a Ship-to-Shore Crane (STS), serves to move containers from a ship to land or vice versa. QCCs typically have a large lifting capacity and can lift multiple containers simultaneously.

A Shiploader is equipment used for loading goods into a ship. Meanwhile, a Ship unloader is used to unload goods from the ship.

Additionally, a Container Reach Stacker is useful for moving containers from one place to another within the port. It’s typically used to transfer containers from ships to storage areas or the other way around.

Given the rather complex and lengthy loading and unloading process, it’s clear that it needs extra effort and time. Therefore, it’s necessary to work with a quality logistics company that provides comprehensive services.

SELOG: Trusted Logistics Partner

A logistics company you can opt for is SELOG, a subsidiary of PT Serasi Autoraya (SERA) and part of the Astra Group.

With over 20 years of experience, SELOG provides comprehensive and end-to-end logistics solutions. They range from Trucking, Shipping Services, Freight Forwarding, and Warehousing to Project Cargo.

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SELOG’s services are supported by cutting-edge digital technology, such as Astra Fleet Management (AstraFMS) and Warehouse Systems (WMS), which enhance business efficiency.

These technologies allow businesses to track delivery vehicles in real time, ensuring vehicle and driver safety. They also help optimize the process of goods receipt, storage, stock management, pick-up, packaging, and shipping.