Pre-pull
The carrier pulls the container from the port before the receiver can take it, usually to reduce LFD and terminal timing pressure.
ABFBA knowledge center
Pre-pull vs yard storage for import containers
Pre-pull and yard storage are related, but they are not the same decision. A pre-pull gets the container out of the terminal. Yard storage controls what happens while the warehouse is not ready.
Plain difference
Use pre-pull for terminal timing. Use yard storage for the waiting period after pickup.
Yard storage
The container waits at a yard or staging location until the appointment, unload plan or transload plan is ready.
Transload alternative
If the receiver cannot accept a live container, transload may be better than keeping the whole box staged.
Decision criteria
The better choice depends on receiving rules, time pressure and freight handling needs.
The receiver is ready
Appointment is confirmed, unload rules are clear and empty return can be planned.
LFD is the main risk
The container should leave the terminal before the warehouse can receive it.
The container needs a short hold
The shipment can wait as a full container until a later delivery window.
The freight must be handled
Pallet work, floor-loaded freight, staged delivery or domestic outbound equipment changes the plan.
Next step
Ask ABFBA to compare direct delivery, pre-pull, yard storage and transload.
Send terminal, LFD, destination, appointment, weight, commodity and unload details so the quote reflects the real operating path.