ETD and ETA

In detail

ETD and ETA are the two anchor dates in ocean freight planning. ETD: the date the vessel is scheduled to leave the port of loading. In practice, 'rolling' (a vessel departure being moved to the next sailing due to space or operational issues) is common and can delay ETD by 1–7 days without prior notice. ETA: the scheduled arrival at the destination port. Deviations of 3–14 days from ETA are normal, especially on long routes. Current ETA can be tracked via the shipping line's website or AIS vessel tracking using the IMO number. Critical distinction: ETA is NOT the date you receive your goods. From vessel arrival to warehouse receipt, add: 1–2 days for vessel discharge, 1–2 days movement to temporary storage warehouse, 1–5 days for customs clearance (longer if inspection is requested). Total realistic buffer: 7–14 days after ETA. When planning inventory replenishment, use ETA + 10 days as your conservative estimated delivery date.