GlossaryEN1 min readUpdated: Jun 18, 2026
Yard Turn Time
Yard turn time measures the total elapsed time a vehicle or container spends at a terminal from gate-in to gate-out, covering all waiting, loading, inspection, and clearance stages.
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Source: https://www.inboundlogistics.com/cms/glossary/yard-turn-time
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Definition & Explanation
Yard turn time measures the total elapsed time a vehicle or container spends at a terminal from gate-in to gate-out, covering all waiting, loading, inspection, and clearance stages. As a key performance indicator in terminal operations, a low yard turn time reflects smooth workflows and adequate resources; a high figure points to congestion, labour shortfalls, or equipment constraints. Terminal operators and forwarders apply it to cost accounting – including yard fees and demurrage calculations – as well as resource scheduling and benchmarking against competing facilities. It differs from dwell time, which tracks how long a container remains on terminal regardless of truck movements.
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