Understanding Export vs Import Workflows

Portmasters Workspace provides two specialised board configurations that adapt to your operational role in each shipment.

Export board – when you’re at the origin

Use the Export board when your company is located where the cargo originates.

You are typically responsible for:

• Cargo pickup.
• Export documentation.
• Customs clearance at origin.
• Loading coordination.

Export board columns

• Manifest / BL – Bill of Lading preparation and export manifest.
• Documentation – Export documentation and customs clearance.
• Invoice – Billing and payment for export services.
• Telex Release – Authorisation to release cargo at destination.
• Archive – Completed export bookings.

Import board – when you’re at the destination

Use the Import board when your company is located where the cargo is being delivered.

You are typically responsible for:

• Arrival processing.
• Import customs clearance.
• Delivery coordination.
• Detention and demurrage management.

Import board columns

• Manifest / BL – Arrival manifest and import bill of lading.
• Invoice – Import charges and billing.
• Documentation – Import customs clearance and documentation.
• Delivery Order – Authorisation for cargo release and delivery.
• Detention – Tracking container detention and demurrage charges.
• Archive – Completed import bookings.

Key difference: detention

The Detention column only appears on the Import board because detention and demurrage charges occur at the destination when containers aren’t returned on time. Export operations don’t typically manage detention, so this column is excluded from the Export board.

Switching between boards

Use the Export and Import tabs at the top of the Workspace to switch between board views based on the bookings you’re managing.