Master How to Read Container Positions in the Yard in Just 4 Steps
Accurately reading container positions in the yard is an essential skill that helps businesses, logistics staff, and cargo owners quickly locate and manage goods, saving time and avoiding unnecessary costs. In this article, Tân Thanh Container will guide you on how to read container positions in the yard efficiently in just 4 simple steps. We’ll also share where to look up container locations accurately and the consequences of misreading container positions in real-world operations.
Quick and Accurate Guide to Reading Container Positions in the Yard
To correctly decode container position codes in the yard, you need to understand the standard numbering system used at major ports in Vietnam, such as Cát Lái Port, Hải Phòng Port, and Đà Nẵng Port. Container yard management typically relies on three key elements: Bay (row), Row (slot), and Tier (level)—this is the global standard in modern port container management systems.
When reading container positions in the yard, always follow this order: Bay → Row → Tier. This sequence is an international standard and is uniformly applied at ports and container yards in Vietnam and worldwide.
Bay Number (Bay No.)
Numbered along the yard’s length.
(For yards: Usually from the gate inward.)
(For ships: Usually from the bow to the stern.)
When facing the yard, Bay 01 is typically the outermost row, closest to the gate or main road.
Row Number (Row No. or Slot No.)
Numbered horizontally across the yard (left to right or right to left, depending on the yard’s rules).
In Vietnam, Row 01 is usually the far-left row when standing at the bay entrance and looking into the yard.
Tier Number (Tier No.)
Numbered vertically from bottom to top.
The lowest tier is 01 or 1, and the next is 02 or 2.
Example:
Container position: 05-03-02
05: Bay 5 (from the gate inward)
03: Row 3 (left to right in Bay 5)
02: Tier 2 (from the ground up)
Where to Accurately Look Up Container Locations?
To find the exact container position in the yard, you need to check via online systems or the official websites of ports or shipping lines. This is a crucial step in modern logistics container management.
Some popular container lookup platforms in Vietnam:
Cát Lái Port (Ho Chi Minh City): https://eport.saigonnewport.com.vn/ContainerInformation
Hải Phòng Port (Northern Vietnam): http://haiphongport.com.vn/vi/tra-cuu-vi-tri-container.vtt.html
Đà Nẵng Port (Central Vietnam): https://danangport.com/
You can also check container locations via shipping line websites, container tracking apps, logistics management software, or modern container tracking systems.
Quick Lookup Steps:
Access the port’s website or app.
Enter the container number, Bill of Lading (B/L), or import/export details.
Click “Search” to view the container’s yard position, shipping status, and estimated pickup time.
Consequences of Misreading Container Positions in the Yard?
Incorrectly reading container position codes or failing to update the latest location can lead to serious logistical and financial issues:
Wasted search time: Staff spend extra time locating containers, delaying cargo handovers and operational efficiency.
Increased demurrage costs: Containers left longer in the yard due to misplacement incur storage fees, raising operational costs.
Supply chain disruptions: Late pickups can delay production, shipping schedules, and overall logistics flow.
Cargo damage risks: Moving the wrong container may damage goods, especially high-value import/export shipments.
Damaged business reputation: Delays and errors in container management harm credibility with partners and customers.
Apply the 4-step guide above and use accurate container tracking tools (port websites, tracking apps, or logistics systems) to monitor containers anytime, anywhere.
Struggling with efficient container transport solutions? Contact Tân Thanh Container—Vietnam’s trusted container supplier. With 30+ years of experience, we provide optimized container solutions, professional services, and dedicated customer support.
>> Read more: How to Accurately Check Container Positions at Cát Lái Port
Address: No. 14, Street 15, Block 4, Linh Trung Ward, Thu Duc City, Ho Chi Minh City
Phone: 0968 039 939
Email: info@tanthanhcontainer.com
Website: https://tanthanhcontainer.com/
