What Is Container Devanning?

Container devanning is the process of unloading cargo from a shipping container once it arrives at a warehouse, port, or distribution center. Also known as stripping or unpacking, devanning is a critical first step in the supply chain after international freight reaches its destination.

At On-Demand Warehousing, we specialize in fast, efficient container devanning, ensuring your cargo is handled with care, inventoried accurately, and moved quickly into storage or distribution.

Why Container Devanning Matters

When containers arrive from overseas, time is of the essence. Ports and rail yards often provide limited free time before storage fees begin to accrue. That means having a partner who can quickly receive and unload your container—without delays—is essential.

Proper devanning ensures:

• Freight is received undamaged
• Inventory is accurately recorded
• Orders or cross-docking can begin immediately
• Your supply chain keeps moving without bottlenecks

At On-Demand Warehousing, we handle devanning with precision and speed, saving you time and money. Whether you receive one container per month or multiple per day, our team is equipped to scale with your needs. We understand the urgency behind free time expiration at the port or railyard and work proactively to avoid costly delays. Our customized palletizing and kitting services by tie-highs and real-time communication ensure your freight is handled exactly how you expect.

Devanning Services Can Include:

• Unloading full containers (20’, 40’, 40’ HC)
• Palletizing floor-loaded containers according to client-specific tie-highs (carton stacking plans)
• Palletizing or re-palletizing cargo
• Labeling, inspection, and documentation
• Inventory reconciliation and put-away
• Cross-docking for immediate outbound shipments

How Much Time Should You Allow for Devanning Service?

The time required for container devanning depends on the type of freight and the services needed. A typical 40′ floor-loaded container may take 4 to 6 hours to unload, palletize, inspect, and stage. If your shipment requires labeling, inventory counts, or SKU sorting, additional time should be built into your timeline. Planning for at least a full business day is a safe estimate for most floor-loaded containers. At On-Demand Warehousing, we prioritize speed and accuracy, especially for time-sensitive shipments arriving through JAXPORT.

Our Jacksonville facility is located just minutes from JAXPORT, a major player in containerized cargo on the East Coast.

JAXPORT’s container services page 👉 https://www.jaxport.com/cargo-shipping/container/

For our other services check out our services page or contact us to request a container devanning quote today.