How to differentiate between ICD and DEPOT

1. ICD (Inland Container Depot) – Inland Port

Definition: An inland container terminal recognized by customs authorities, functioning as a “dry port.” It provides the same customs clearance services as seaports or border gates.
Main functions:
- Customs clearance for import/export cargo.
- Consolidation and deconsolidation of containers.
- Storage and handling of full/empty containers.
- Equipped with customs offices, warehouses, and handling equipment.
Examples: ICD Bien Hoa, ICD Trang Bom, ICD Song Than.
Key features:
- Permanent customs presence.
- Capable of issuing customs clearance documents on-site.
- Large-scale operation.

2. Depot (Container Depot / Empty Depot) – Container Yard

Definition: A storage yard mainly for empty containers, operated by shipping lines or logistics companies. It does not handle customs clearance.
Main functions:
- Receive and release empty containers.
- Inspect, clean, and repair damaged containers.
- Support exporters/importers in container pickup and return.
Examples: Tan Cang Long Binh Depot, Phuoc An Depot, Dong Nai Depot.
Key features:
- No customs services inside.
- Primarily for container management, not cargo clearance.
- Smaller in scale compared to ICD.

Comparison: ICD vs Depot

Criteria	ICD (Inland Container Depot)	Depot (Container Depot / Empty Depot)
Main function	Customs clearance, cargo consolidation/distribution	Storage, repair, and supply of empty containers
Customs presence	Yes – customs officers on-site	No – no customs activities
Scale	Large – acts like an inland port	Smaller – only a container yard
Cargo handled	Both loaded and empty containers	Mainly empty containers
Typical location	Inland logistics hubs near industrial zones	Near ports or ICDs for container circulation
Examples	ICD Song Than, ICD Bien Hoa	Tan Cang Long Binh Depot, Phuoc An Depot

In short:

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