Once a container lands, the clock starts. Here's the sequence that keeps an import moving smoothly — and where a local partner saves you time.
1. Drayage: getting the container off the port
The first step is moving the container from the terminal or rail yard to a facility where it can be unloaded. Coordinating drayage promptly matters — containers left too long can rack up demurrage and detention charges from the carrier.
2. Destuffing: unloading the freight
Destuffing is the physical unload. Whether the container is neatly palletized or loose-loaded floor to ceiling, it needs a team and dock space to empty it safely and efficiently.
3. Sort, palletize and wrap
Loose freight gets sorted, stacked onto pallets and wrapped so it's stable and ready to store or ship. This is also the moment to catch damage, shortages or mislabeled product before it moves further down the line.
4. Label and count
Accurate labelling and inventory management turn a pile of boxes into stock you can actually work with — so you know what arrived, what's on hand, and what's ready to go out.
5. Store or ship
From there, product either goes into storage until you need it, or straight out for final-mile delivery. Having both options under one roof means you don't have to decide everything up front.
Your quick import checklist
- Line up drayage early to avoid port charges.
- Confirm dock space and a team for destuffing.
- Plan for sorting, palletizing and wrapping.
- Get freight labelled and counted on receipt.
- Decide storage vs. final-mile — or keep both open.
Importing into the Edmonton region? We handle containers end to end for importers of all sizes. See our container services or get a quote.