Ocean freight
Gating In
Gating In is the acceptance of a container into a terminal, depot or other controlled facility through its gate process.
Understand it in practiceWhere it fits in the journey
Highlighted stages are commonly relevant- 01Agree
- 02Prepare
- 03Transport — commonly relevant
- 04Clear
- 05Deliver
Gating In at a glance
- Container arrives
- Terminal accepts at gate
- Loading process still ahead
Does gated in mean loaded on board?
A gate-in record confirms equipment receipt; it does not necessarily confirm vessel loading or customs clearance.
Choose the right container arrangement
| Question | FCL | LCL |
|---|---|---|
| Container use | Dedicated to your shipment | Shared with other shipments |
| Typical pricing basis | Per container plus local charges | Weight or measure plus local charges |
| Handling | Loaded as a dedicated unit | Consolidated and separated |
| Best comparison | Total delivered cost and handling needs | Total delivered cost and handling needs |
Scroll sideways to compare

Before you book
For ocean freight, have these details ready:
- Cargo volume and packed weight
- Origin and destination charge breakdown
- Sailing, cut-offs and equipment free time
Sources & further reading
Plain-language educational guidance. The applicable contract, carrier tariff, official rules or insurance policy takes precedence. Illustrations show concepts, not a specific shipment or facility.
Published by Allwayforward as a plain-language freight reference. Examples are illustrative, not customer case studies. For a correction, send the term and supporting source.