Logistics Terms
What Is an Inland Container Depot (ICD / Dry Port)?
4 min read
An Inland Container Depot (ICD), often called a dry port, is a customs-notified facility located away from the seaport where containerised import and export cargo can be received, examined and cleared, then moved by rail to and from a gateway port.
Why ICDs exist
ICDs bring port-style services closer to inland industrial and trading regions. Businesses can stuff, de-stuff and clear containers near their own premises instead of only at a distant coast, which reduces road haulage and simplifies coordination.
How cargo moves
- Containers are stuffed or de-stuffed at the ICD.
- Customs assessment and examination happen inland.
- Containers move by rail between the ICD and the gateway seaport.
- At the port the container is loaded to or discharged from the ocean vessel.