CMA CGM Tracking

CMA CGM Tracking: Complete 2025 Guide to Real-Time Container Tracking & Shipment Visibility

In global container shipping, knowing your cargo’s exact location can mean the difference between on-time delivery and costly delays. CMA CGM tracking has evolved into one of the most sophisticated shipment monitoring systems in the maritime logistics industry, offering real-time visibility across 420+ ports worldwide.

Table of Contents

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about tracking your CMA CGM containers, from basic tracking methods to advanced features using AI-powered predictions and IoT integration in 2025.

What is CMA CGM Tracking? {#what-is-cma-cgm-tracking}

CMA CGM tracking is a digital shipment monitoring system that enables customers to track containers, vessels, and cargo movements in real-time across the company’s global shipping network. As the world’s fourth-largest container shipping company, CMA CGM operates over 620 vessels connecting 160 countries through major trade routes spanning Asia, Europe, the Americas, and Africa.

Key Tracking Capabilities

Real-Time GPS Monitoring: Track your container’s precise location at sea using satellite-based positioning systems that update multiple times daily.

Automated Milestone Updates: Receive notifications for critical events including container loading, vessel departure, transshipment, customs clearance, and final delivery.

Predictive ETA Calculations: Advanced AI algorithms analyze vessel speed, weather patterns, port congestion, and historical data to provide accurate estimated arrival times.

Multi-Shipment Dashboard: Registered users can monitor multiple containers simultaneously through a centralized interface accessible via web and mobile applications.

CMA CGM Company Overview

Founded in 1978 and headquartered in Marseille, France, CMA CGM Group employs over 150,000 people worldwide. Led by CEO Rodolphe Saadé, the company has invested heavily in digital transformation, making it a pioneer in implementing IoT sensors, blockchain technology, and artificial intelligence for supply chain visibility.

How to Track CMA CGM Containers: Complete Methods {#how-to-track}

Primary Tracking Identifiers

To track your CMA CGM shipment, you’ll need one of these three identifiers:

Tracking MethodFormatExampleBest Used For
Container Number4 letters + 7-8 digitsCMAU1234567Individual container tracking
Bill of Lading (B/L)CMDU + 8-12 charactersCMDU123456789Complete shipment with multiple containers
Booking ReferenceAlphanumeric codeBKG456789Pre-departure tracking and planning

Understanding Container Number Formats

CMA CGM containers follow the ISO 6346 international standard:

  • First 3 letters: Owner code (e.g., CMA, CGM, FSC, TEM)
  • 4th letter: Container category (U = freight container)
  • Next 6 digits: Registration number
  • Last digit: Check digit for validation

Common CMA CGM Prefixes: CMAU, CGMU, FSCU, TEMU, GLDU, ECMU

Note: Not all containers on CMA CGM vessels are owned by CMA CGM. Many belong to leasing companies or other operators but follow the same tracking system.

Step-by-Step Tracking Process {#step-by-step}

Method 1: Official CMA CGM Website Tracking

Step 1: Navigate to the official CMA CGM tracking portal

Step 2: Enter your tracking identifier:

  • Container number (11-12 characters)
  • Booking reference number
  • Bill of Lading number

Step 3: Click “Track Shipment” or “Search”

Step 4: View comprehensive tracking information:

  • Current container location (with map visualization for registered users)
  • Vessel name and voyage number
  • Port of loading and discharge
  • Estimated Time of Arrival (ETA)
  • Days remaining until delivery
  • Container status (in transit, at port, delivered)
  • Transshipment ports and dates

Method 2: My CMA CGM Dashboard (Registered Users)

For businesses shipping regularly with CMA CGM, the My CMA CGM platform offers enhanced features:

Benefits of Registration:

  • Live map visualization showing vessel position at sea
  • Automated email/SMS notifications for shipment events
  • Batch tracking for multiple containers
  • Access to shipping documents (invoice, packing list, certificates)
  • Demurrage and Detention (D&D) charge monitoring
  • Online payment options for fees and invoices
  • Historical shipment data and analytics

Registration Process:

  1. Visit My CMA CGM portal
  2. Click “Create Account”
  3. Provide business details and contact information
  4. Verify email address
  5. Log in to access dashboard features

Method 3: Mobile App Tracking

Download the CMA CGM mobile application (available on iOS and Android) for on-the-go tracking:

Mobile App Features:

  • Quick container search with barcode scanning
  • Push notifications for shipment updates
  • Schedule searches for future bookings
  • Offline access to previously viewed shipments
  • Direct customer service chat integration

Advanced Tracking Features Available in 2025 {#advanced-features}

CMA CGM has implemented cutting-edge technology to enhance supply chain visibility:

AI-Powered Predictive Analytics

Artificial intelligence algorithms analyze multiple data sources to predict delays before they occur:

  • Weather Pattern Analysis: Monitors storm systems, typhoons, and adverse weather conditions that may impact vessel routes
  • Port Congestion Forecasting: Predicts wait times at major ports based on vessel traffic and terminal capacity
  • Route Optimization: Suggests alternative routes when primary paths experience disruptions
  • Delay Probability Scoring: Assigns risk scores to shipments based on historical performance data

IoT Smart Container Integration

CMA CGM’s SMART Dry Container service uses Internet of Things sensors to monitor:

Monitoring FeaturePurposeAlert Triggers
Door Opening DetectionSecurity monitoringUnauthorized access attempts
Temperature FluctuationsCargo integrity for temperature-sensitive goodsReadings outside acceptable range
Humidity LevelsPrevent moisture damageExcessive moisture detection
Shock DetectionIdentify rough handlingImpact events exceeding thresholds
GPS LocationReal-time positioningUnexpected route deviations

Blockchain-Enabled Documentation

CMA CGM has partnered with TradeLens and other blockchain platforms to ensure:

  • Tamper-proof tracking records
  • Transparent document sharing across supply chain partners
  • Reduced documentation fraud
  • Faster customs clearance through verified digital documents

Automated Notification System

Configure alerts for specific events:

Available Notification Types:

  • Container loaded onto vessel
  • Vessel departure from origin port
  • Arrival at transshipment port
  • Container transferred between vessels
  • Arrival at destination port
  • Container available for pickup
  • Customs clearance completed
  • Delay notifications with updated ETAs
  • Demurrage and detention warnings

Notification Delivery Options: Email, SMS, WhatsApp, mobile push notifications, API webhooks

Tracking Through Different Methods {#tracking-methods}

Bill of Lading (B/L) Tracking

Advantages of B/L Tracking:

  • View all containers under a single shipment
  • More comprehensive than individual container tracking
  • Includes transshipment details and complete routing information
  • Access to commercial documents and customs paperwork

How to Track via B/L:

  1. Locate your Master Bill of Lading number (format: CMDU + 8-12 characters)
  2. Enter the B/L number in the tracking portal
  3. View complete shipment details including all associated containers
  4. Monitor transshipment points and vessel changes

Booking Reference Tracking

Useful for tracking shipments before containers are assigned:

Pre-Departure Tracking Benefits:

  • Monitor booking confirmation status
  • View scheduled departure dates
  • Check container allocation
  • Access vessel and voyage information
  • Plan inland transportation before arrival

Vessel Tracking

Track the ship carrying your container using:

Vessel Tracking Identifiers:

  • Vessel name (e.g., CMA CGM ANTOINE DE SAINT EXUPERY)
  • IMO number (International Maritime Organization identifier)
  • MMSI number (Maritime Mobile Service Identity)
  • Voyage number

Vessel Tracking Information Available:

  • Current vessel position with latitude/longitude coordinates
  • Speed and heading
  • Port of departure and next port of call
  • Estimated arrival time at destination
  • Complete route and past port calls
  • Weather conditions along the route

Common Tracking Issues & Solutions {#troubleshooting}

Issue 1: “Container Number Not Found”

Possible Causes:

  • Tracking data not yet updated in the system (typically takes 6-24 hours after booking)
  • Incorrect container number format
  • Typos in the tracking number
  • Container hasn’t been loaded yet

Solutions:

  1. Verify the container number format: Ensure all characters are correct (no spaces, proper case)
  2. Wait 24-48 hours: New bookings require time to appear in the tracking system
  3. Try alternative tracking methods: Use booking reference or B/L number instead
  4. Contact your freight forwarder: Confirm the correct tracking number
  5. Check for container prefix variations: Some containers may use different owner codes (CGMU vs CMAU)

Issue 2: Tracking Shows No Updates or Outdated Information

Common Reasons:

  • Data refresh delays: CMA CGM systems typically update 2-4 times per day, not continuously
  • Transshipment gaps: Updates may pause during container transfer between vessels
  • Port congestion: Delays in port operations affect tracking refresh rates
  • Weekend and holiday effects: Reduced port operations lead to fewer updates

Solutions:

  1. Check vessel tracking: Use vessel name or IMO number to confirm ship movements
  2. Enable automatic notifications: Set up alerts to receive updates without manual checking
  3. Use third-party platforms: Tools like TRADLINX, GoComet, or SeaVantage offer more frequent updates (up to 12 times daily)
  4. Cross-reference with port schedules: Visit the port’s official website for arrival information
  5. Contact CMA CGM customer service: For critical shipments, request manual status updates

Issue 3: Incorrect or Conflicting ETA

Why ETAs Change:

  • Weather delays (storms, fog, adverse sea conditions)
  • Port congestion and berth availability issues
  • Vessel speed adjustments for fuel efficiency
  • Unscheduled port calls or route changes
  • Customs and security inspection delays
  • Equipment shortages (chassis, trucks for inland transport)

Best Practices:

  1. Monitor ETA changes regularly: Check tracking 2-3 times weekly as arrival date approaches
  2. Plan buffer time: Add 2-3 days to ETA for inland logistics planning
  3. Subscribe to ETA change alerts: Receive immediate notifications when estimates are revised
  4. Coordinate with destination port: Contact terminal operators for real-time berthing schedules
  5. Use AI-powered predictions: Third-party tools often provide more accurate forecasts

Issue 4: Multiple Containers Under One Booking

Challenge: Tracking a booking number shows multiple containers with different statuses

Solutions:

  1. Track each container individually: Enter specific container numbers for detailed tracking
  2. Use B/L tracking: Provides consolidated view of all containers in the shipment
  3. Create a tracking spreadsheet: Monitor multiple containers with their respective statuses
  4. Use batch tracking tools: Third-party platforms allow simultaneous tracking of multiple containers

Issue 5: Container Stuck at Transshipment Port

Common Transshipment Hubs:

  • Singapore
  • Port Klang (Malaysia)
  • Rotterdam (Netherlands)
  • Algeciras (Spain)
  • Tangier Med (Morocco)
  • Colombo (Sri Lanka)
  • Jeddah (Saudi Arabia)

Action Steps:

  1. Verify transshipment schedule: Confirm next vessel connection dates
  2. Check for missed connections: Container may need to wait for the next available vessel
  3. Monitor customs status: Some ports require additional documentation during transshipment
  4. Contact CMA CGM: For shipments delayed over 5 days at transshipment ports
  5. Review shipping contract: Understand your service level agreement and compensation terms

CMA CGM Smart Container Technology {#smart-containers}

What Are Smart Containers?

Smart containers are equipped with IoT sensors and connectivity devices that transmit real-time data throughout the journey. CMA CGM’s SMART Dry Container service represents the future of cargo monitoring.

Smart Container Features

Environmental Monitoring:

  • Internal temperature tracking (±0.1°C accuracy)
  • Humidity level monitoring
  • Air quality sensors for detecting gas leaks or contamination
  • Pressure monitoring for hermetically sealed cargo

Security Features:

  • Door open/close detection with timestamp logging
  • Geofencing alerts when container moves outside designated areas
  • Shock and tilt sensors for detecting rough handling
  • Tamper-evident seals with electronic verification

Location Tracking:

  • GPS positioning updated every 15-60 minutes
  • Cellular and satellite connectivity for ocean coverage
  • Automatic identification system (AIS) integration
  • Port terminal positioning when on land

Benefits for Shippers

For Temperature-Sensitive Cargo:

  • Pharmaceutical shipments requiring consistent cold chain
  • Perishable food products
  • Chemical compounds with temperature specifications
  • Electronics sensitive to heat exposure

For High-Value Goods:

  • Luxury items and jewelry
  • Industrial machinery and equipment
  • Automotive parts and components
  • Consumer electronics and appliances

For Regulatory Compliance:

  • FDA and pharmaceutical compliance documentation
  • Customs and border protection requirements
  • Quality assurance certification
  • Insurance claim support with sensor data

How to Request Smart Container Service

  1. Contact CMA CGM sales: Inquire about SMART Container availability on your route
  2. Specify monitoring requirements: Temperature ranges, humidity levels, security needs
  3. Review pricing: Smart containers typically cost 10-20% more than standard containers
  4. Access sensor data: Log into My CMA CGM platform to view real-time sensor readings
  5. Generate reports: Export sensor data for compliance and quality control documentation

Benefits of Real-Time CMA CGM Tracking {#benefits}

For Importers and Exporters

Supply Chain Optimization:

  • Reduce safety stock levels by knowing exact arrival times
  • Coordinate warehouse receiving schedules efficiently
  • Minimize demurrage and detention charges through timely pickup
  • Improve cash flow forecasting with accurate delivery predictions

Customer Satisfaction:

  • Provide accurate delivery windows to end customers
  • Proactively communicate delays before they impact operations
  • Build trust through transparency and visibility
  • Reduce customer service inquiries with self-service tracking

Risk Mitigation:

  • Early detection of potential delays allows for contingency planning
  • Insurance claim support with detailed tracking history
  • Identify problematic routes or carriers for future optimization
  • Monitor compliance with delivery commitments and SLAs

For Freight Forwarders and 3PLs

Operational Efficiency:

  • Manage multiple client shipments from a centralized dashboard
  • Automate customer notifications reducing manual communication
  • Optimize resource allocation for inland transportation
  • Reduce phone calls and emails requesting status updates

Competitive Advantage:

  • Offer value-added visibility services to clients
  • Differentiate through superior tracking capabilities
  • Build reputation for reliability and transparency
  • Enable premium service offerings with proactive monitoring

For Manufacturers and Distributors

Production Planning:

  • Align manufacturing schedules with raw material arrivals
  • Reduce production line downtime from supply delays
  • Optimize just-in-time inventory management
  • Coordinate multi-source supply chains effectively

Distribution Network Management:

  • Synchronize international and domestic logistics
  • Plan warehouse labor and equipment needs
  • Optimize truck loading and delivery routes
  • Manage cross-docking operations efficiently

CMA CGM vs Third-Party Tracking Tools: Comparison {#comparison}

Official CMA CGM Tracking

Advantages:

  • Direct access to carrier data
  • No additional cost
  • Integrated with CMA CGM billing and documentation
  • Official source for disputes and claims
  • Mobile app with offline capabilities

Limitations:

  • Updates only 2-4 times per day
  • Limited to CMA CGM shipments only
  • Basic analytics and reporting
  • No multi-carrier consolidation
  • Requires registration for advanced features

Third-Party Tracking Platforms

Several specialized platforms offer enhanced tracking capabilities:

PlatformUpdate FrequencyKey FeaturesBest For
TRADLINXUp to 12x dailyMulti-carrier tracking, AIS vessel integration, batch uploadsFreight forwarders managing diverse carriers
GoCometReal-timeAI predictions, WhatsApp alerts, Excel exportsImporters needing proactive notifications
SeaVantageNear real-timeCross-carrier consolidation, API integrationLarge enterprises with high shipment volumes
Project44Real-timeSupply chain visibility platform, predictive ETAsGlobal logistics operations
FourKitesReal-timeEnd-to-end visibility, IoT integrationComplete supply chain monitoring

Choosing the Right Tracking Solution

Use Official CMA CGM Tracking When:

  • Shipping exclusively with CMA CGM
  • Managing fewer than 10 shipments monthly
  • Budget constraints limit third-party tools
  • Basic tracking information is sufficient

Consider Third-Party Tools When:

  • Using multiple shipping carriers (Maersk, MSC, Hapag-Lloyd, etc.)
  • Managing 50+ containers monthly
  • Need automated customer notifications
  • Require detailed analytics and performance metrics
  • Integration with ERP, WMS, or TMS systems is necessary
  • Faster update frequency is critical for operations

CMA CGM Global Contact Information {#contact-info}

Regional Customer Service Centers

RegionCountry/CityPhone NumbersEmail AddressOffice Address
Asia PacificSydney, NSW+61 2 9325 7320<br>+61 2 9325 7329mbe.exports@cma-cgm.comJones Bay Wharf, Suite 134<br>Upper Ground 26-32 Pirrama Road<br>Sydney, NSW 2009, Australia
North AmericaMiami, FL+1 305 398 3600<br>+1 305 398 3638Regional.Office.Miami@cma-cgm.comOne Biscayne Tower<br>2 South Biscayne Blvd, Suite 1400<br>Miami, FL 33131, USA
Middle EastDubai, UAE+971 4 313 8300<br>+971 4 359 6412dubai@cma-cgm.comRais Hassan Saadi Building<br>Mankhool Road, 3rd Floor<br>Dubai, UAE
CanadaMontreal, QC1-800-784-1457<br>+1 514 908 7001<br>+1 514 908 7142cda.genmbox@usa.cma-cgm.com740 Notre-Dame Street West<br>Suite 1330<br>Montreal, QC H3C 3X6, Canada

When to Contact CMA CGM Customer Service

Tracking-Related Issues:

  • Container number not appearing in system after 48 hours
  • No updates for more than 5 days
  • Suspected tracking errors or incorrect information
  • Need confirmation of vessel changes or transshipments

Documentation Issues:

  • Bill of Lading corrections or amendments
  • Missing or incorrect commercial invoice
  • Certificate of origin requests
  • Customs documentation problems

Operational Concerns:

  • Demurrage and detention charge disputes
  • Container damage reports
  • Cargo claims and insurance matters
  • Special handling requirements for hazardous materials

Tips for Effective Communication:

  1. Have your container number, booking reference, or B/L ready
  2. Provide specific dates and port information
  3. Reference any previous case numbers or correspondence
  4. Request written confirmation of any changes or resolutions
  5. Document all interactions with date, time, and representative name

Conclusion: Maximizing Your CMA CGM Tracking Experience

Effective container tracking is no longer optional—it’s essential for competitive supply chain management in 2025. CMA CGM’s tracking system offers comprehensive visibility from booking to delivery, enhanced by AI-powered predictions, IoT sensor integration, and automated notifications. You can also track TCI Express Tracking from our website.

Key Takeaways:

✓ Use the right tracking identifier: Container numbers for individual tracking, B/L numbers for complete shipments, booking references for pre-departure monitoring

✓ Register for My CMA CGM: Unlock advanced features including live vessel maps, automated alerts, document access, and multi-shipment dashboards

✓ Enable proactive notifications: Configure email/SMS alerts for delays, ETA changes, and delivery milestones to stay ahead of potential issues

✓ Consider third-party tools: For multi-carrier operations, more frequent updates, or advanced analytics, platforms like TRADLINX, GoComet, and SeaVantage complement official tracking

✓ Understand common issues: Most tracking problems resolve within 24-48 hours; know when to wait versus when to contact customer service

✓ Leverage smart container technology: For high-value or temperature-sensitive cargo, CMA CGM’s IoT-enabled containers provide peace of mind through real-time environmental monitoring

Whether you’re an importer receiving a single container or a freight forwarder managing hundreds of shipments, mastering CMA CGM tracking transforms uncertainty into actionable intelligence. The combination of official carrier data, predictive analytics, and proactive monitoring enables you to deliver exceptional customer service, optimize operations, and maintain supply chain resilience in an increasingly complex global logistics environment.

Frequently Asked Questions About CMA CGM Tracking {#faqs}

General Tracking Questions

Q1: How do I track my CMA CGM container in real-time?

Visit the CMA CGM tracking portal at www.cma-cgm.com/products-services/ecommerce/container-tracking, enter your container number (11-12 characters), booking reference, or Bill of Lading number, and click “Track.” Registered users can view live vessel positions on an interactive map.

Q2: What information do I need to track my CMA CGM shipment?

You need one of three identifiers: (1) Container number in format XXXX1234567, (2) Booking reference number provided when you booked the shipment, or (3) Bill of Lading (B/L) number starting with CMDU followed by 8-12 characters.

Q3: How accurate is CMA CGM’s estimated time of arrival (ETA)?

CMA CGM’s ETA predictions are generally accurate within 24-48 hours under normal conditions. However, ETAs can change due to weather delays, port congestion, vessel speed adjustments, or customs clearance issues. For critical shipments, check tracking frequently and enable automatic ETA change notifications.

Q4: Can I track multiple CMA CGM containers simultaneously?

Yes. Registered users of the My CMA CGM platform can monitor multiple containers through a centralized dashboard. Enter multiple container numbers separated by commas or use the batch upload feature. Third-party platforms like TRADLINX and GoComet also offer multi-container tracking capabilities.

Q5: Is CMA CGM container tracking free?

Yes, basic container tracking through the official CMA CGM website is completely free for all customers. Advanced features like live map visualization and automated notifications require free registration. Third-party tracking platforms may offer free basic tracking with paid premium features.

Tracking Issues and Troubleshooting

Q6: Why doesn’t my CMA CGM tracking number work?

Common reasons include: (1) Tracking data hasn’t been uploaded yet (wait 24-48 hours after booking), (2) Incorrect container number format or typos, (3) Container hasn’t been loaded onto a vessel yet, or (4) You’re using a House B/L instead of the Master B/L. Verify the tracking number format and try alternative identifiers like booking reference.

Q7: What should I do if my container tracking shows no updates for several days?

First, verify the container is actually moving (check vessel schedule). Updates may pause during weekends, holidays, or transshipment periods. Enable email notifications to receive updates automatically. If no updates appear for 5+ days after expected movement, contact CMA CGM customer service with your container number and B/L for manual status verification.

Q8: How often is CMA CGM tracking data updated?

The official CMA CGM system typically updates 2-4 times per day when containers pass checkpoints (port gates, vessel loading/unloading, customs clearance). Registered users with vessel tracking can see ship positions updated every 1-2 hours via AIS. Third-party platforms may offer more frequent updates (up to 12 times daily) by aggregating multiple data sources.

Q9: Why is my container stuck at a transshipment port?

Containers at transshipment hubs (Singapore, Port Klang, Rotterdam) may wait 2-7 days for the next vessel connection. Check your shipping route to confirm scheduled transshipment points. Delays beyond the scheduled connection time could indicate missed vessel connections, port congestion, customs holds, or documentation issues requiring shipper or consignee action.

Q10: What does each container status mean in CMA CGM tracking?

  • Booked: Shipment reserved but container not yet loaded
  • Gate In: Container received at origin port terminal
  • Loaded: Container placed aboard the vessel
  • Vessel Departed: Ship has left the port with your container
  • Transshipment: Container being transferred to another vessel
  • Vessel Arrived: Ship reached destination port
  • Discharged: Container unloaded from vessel
  • Available for Pickup: Container cleared and ready for collection
  • Gate Out: Container collected from port terminal
  • Delivered: Container delivered to final destination

Advanced Tracking Features

Q11: Can I track the actual vessel carrying my CMA CGM container?

Yes. Once your container is loaded, tracking results will display the vessel name and voyage number. You can track the ship’s position using the vessel name on maritime tracking websites like MarineTraffic, VesselFinder, or through the My CMA CGM live map feature for registered users.

Q12: Does CMA CGM provide proof of delivery documentation?

Yes. Once your container is delivered, the tracking system will show “Delivered” status with the delivery date and time. Registered users can access digital proof of delivery (POD) documents including equipment interchange receipts (EIR) through the My CMA CGM platform. These documents serve as official confirmation of container delivery.

Q13: Can I get automatic notifications about my CMA CGM shipment?

Yes. CMA CGM offers automated alerts via email, SMS, or mobile push notifications for registered users. Configure notifications for specific events: container loaded, vessel departure, arrival at transshipment port, customs clearance, delivery completion, delays, and ETA changes. Set up alerts through the My CMA CGM notification settings.

Q14: What is CMA CGM’s Smart Container service and how do I track it?

CMA CGM SMART Dry Containers are equipped with IoT sensors monitoring temperature, humidity, door openings, shocks, and GPS location throughout the journey. Data is accessible through the My CMA CGM platform for registered users. Smart containers cost 10-20% more than standard containers but provide enhanced cargo security and environmental monitoring critical for pharmaceuticals, perishables, and high-value goods.

Q15: How do I track CMA CGM containers across international shipping routes?

CMA CGM tracking covers the company’s global network spanning 420+ ports. Simply enter your tracking identifier regardless of origin or destination. The system automatically displays the complete route including origin port, transshipment hubs, and destination port with estimated dates for each milestone. Coverage includes Asia-Europe, Transpacific, Transatlantic, Asia-Middle East, and Intra-Asia routes.

Operational and Customer Service Questions

Q16: What should I do if my CMA CGM container is delayed?

First, check tracking for updated ETA and delay reasons. Common causes include weather, port congestion, customs issues, or equipment shortages. If delay exceeds 48 hours beyond original ETA without explanation, contact CMA CGM customer service with your container number. For critical shipments, inquire about expedited customs clearance or priority delivery options.

Q17: How do I dispute demurrage and detention charges shown in CMA CGM tracking?

Demurrage (port storage charges) and detention (equipment usage charges) appear in the My CMA CGM invoice dashboard. To dispute charges: (1) Gather evidence (cargo ready dates, pickup appointment confirmations, terminal receipts), (2) Contact CMA CGM customer service within 30 days of charge notification, (3) Submit formal dispute through My CMA CGM platform, (4) Provide documentation proving timely action, (5) Request charge waiver or adjustment.

Q18: Can I track CMA CGM containers if I’m not the shipper or consignee?

Yes, anyone with the container number, booking reference, or B/L number can track shipments through the public CMA CGM tracking portal. However, registered account features (live maps, documents, invoices) are restricted to verified shippers and consignees. Freight forwarders can access tracking for all clients they represent.

Q19: What happens if I enter the wrong container number in CMA CGM tracking?

The system will return “Container not found” or display information for a different shipment. Always verify container numbers carefully: (1) Check for character confusion (0 vs O, 1 vs I), (2) Confirm proper format (4 letters + 7 numbers + check digit), (3) Remove any spaces or special characters, (4) Verify with your booking confirmation or B/L. Incorrect tracking won’t affect your actual shipment.

Q20: How far in advance can I track my CMA CGM booking before the container is loaded?

Booking reference tracking is available immediately after booking confirmation, typically 7-14 days before vessel departure. You can monitor booking status, allocated container numbers (once assigned), scheduled vessel and voyage, departure and arrival dates, and equipment readiness. Container number tracking becomes active once the container is gate-in at the origin port terminal.