Related Glossary
Estimated Time of Sailing (ETS)
Estimated Time of Sailing (ETS) refers to the planned date and time a vessel is expected to depart from the origin port. It is a key scheduling indicator used by carriers, freight forwarders, and shippers to plan cargo readiness, documentation, and connecting logistics. ETS can shift based on port operations, vessel scheduling, or weather conditions, so it is monitored closely throughout the export process.
Key Points
ETS marks the vessel’s expected departure from its loading port.
Helps shippers plan cargo cut-off times, stuffing schedules, and documentation submission.
Used by forwarders to coordinate trucking, warehousing, and export customs formalities.
Appears on booking confirmations, sailing schedules, and carrier portals.
Can change due to port congestion, vessel delays, or operational issues.
Important for aligning supply chain timelines and downstream planning at the destination.
Benefits and Challenges
Benefits
Gives shippers a clear timeline for cargo readiness and dispatch.
Helps avoid missed vessel cut-offs and costly rollovers.
Supports accurate planning for production, packing, and export clearance.
Allows buyers to estimate transit time and plan inventory receipt.
Challenges
ETS is only an estimate and may change frequently.
Delays in port operations or vessel schedules can push ETS forward.
Miscommunication between the forwarder and shipper can lead to rushed or incomplete documentation.
Inaccurate ETS may affect transit planning and expected delivery dates.
Example Scenario
A freight forwarder has booked space for a client’s shipment on a vessel scheduled to sail from Singapore with an ETS of 10 March at 18:00.
Step-by-step:
The forwarder informs the shipper of the ETS so the cargo can be packed and transported to the port on time.
The shipper prepares documentation and hands over the goods before the carrier’s cut-off.
Export customs clearance is completed based on the vessel’s planned departure.
On 10 March, the vessel departs as scheduled, and the ETS becomes the actual Time of Sailing.
The buyer uses this sailing date to track expected arrival and plan downstream logistics.
Conclusion
The Estimated Time of Sailing is a simple yet powerful scheduling tool that keeps global shipments on track. It guides shippers, forwarders, and buyers in planning production, paperwork, and inventory flows. Monitoring ETS closely helps prevent delays, missed sailings, and disruptions across the supply chain.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the difference between ETS and ETD?
ETS is specific to vessel departures, while ETD can apply to any mode of transport.
2. Can ETS change after booking?
Yes. It often changes due to operational delays or port congestion.
3. Is ETS required for export documentation?
Yes. Many documents and customs filings reference the expected sailing date.
4. Does ETS affect arrival time?
Absolutely. Any delay in ETS impacts the Estimated Time of Arrival (ETA).
5. Where can I check the latest ETS?
On the carrier’s sailing schedule, booking platforms, or updates from your freight