Ocean Container Tracking

CMA CGM logo for CMA CGM tracking on CargoEnter

CMA CGM Container Tracking (CMDU) – Track & Trace

Use this CMA CGM page for CMAU, CGMU, and related container prefixes, bill of lading searches, and shipments moving through CMA CGM or group services.

CMA CGM container tracking guide on CargoEnter
SCAC
CMDU
Container prefixes
CMAU, CGMU
Example
CMAU1234567
Headquarters
Marseille, France

CMA CGM references can point to the shipping line, the equipment owner, or a group-service movement, so the reference type should be checked before reading milestones.

CMA CGM tracking can use CMAU or CGMU container numbers, bills of lading, or booking references.

Container prefixes help identify equipment but do not always prove the operating carrier on each leg.

CargoEnter is useful when CMA CGM tracking must be shared with customers or handled by a team.

CMA CGM is a French container shipping and logistics company, ranking as the world's third-largest carrier. The company has expanded through acquisitions including APL and is known for its commitment to sustainable shipping and LNG-powered vessels.

CMAU and CGMU prefixes identify equipment context, but the operating leg may involve a partner or feeder service.

A carrier B/L is usually stronger evidence than the container prefix when assigning the operating carrier.

CMA CGM tracking references and group-service caveats

CMA CGM references can point to the shipping line, the equipment owner, or a group-service movement, so the reference type should be checked before reading milestones.

Supported references

CMAU and CGMU container numbers. CMA CGM bill of lading or booking references. Container references attached to CMA CGM group or partner-service movements.

Prefix and carrier caveats

CMAU and CGMU prefixes identify equipment context, but the operating leg may involve a partner or feeder service. A carrier B/L is usually stronger evidence than the container prefix when assigning the operating carrier. Port events should be compared with the planned route because transshipment is common on long-haul CMA CGM moves.

Official portal limitations

CMA CGM official tools are best for account-specific carrier data and document actions. CargoEnter is better for cross-carrier visibility, customer sharing, and team workflow around the same shipment.

When to use CargoEnter

Use CargoEnter when a CMA CGM shipment needs status, route, notes, documents, and tasks in one place. Use CargoEnter when multiple containers on one booking need to be reviewed together. Use the carrier portal when you need direct CMA CGM release, booking, or document controls.

Troubleshooting missing updates

If tracking does not update, verify the reference format first. CMAU and CGMU prefixes identify equipment context, but the operating leg may involve a partner or feeder service. A carrier B/L is usually stronger evidence than the container prefix when assigning the operating carrier. Port events should be compared with the planned route because transshipment is common on long-haul CMA CGM moves. CMA CGM official tools are best for account-specific carrier data and document actions. CargoEnter is better for cross-carrier visibility, customer sharing, and team workflow around the same shipment.

Carrier-specific status notes

Loaded on board: Treat this as the start of the active sea leg and record vessel/voyage context. Transshipment: CMA CGM long-haul routes may involve partner or feeder legs; read the next load event before declaring a delay. Available for pickup: This may be terminal-specific and still depends on customs, release, and local charges.

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Frequently asked questions

How do I track a CMA CGM container?

Enter your CMA CGM container number (e.g., CMAU1234567) or Bill of Lading number. Container numbers are 11 characters: 4 letters followed by 7 digits.

What container prefixes does CMA CGM use?

CMA CGM uses container prefixes including CMAU, CGMU. These BIC codes identify containers owned or operated by CMA CGM.

How often does CMA CGM tracking update?

CMA CGM tracking updates when the carrier reports a new operational milestone such as gate-in, loading, departure, transshipment, discharge, or delivery. Reporting time varies by carrier system, terminal, and route.

Can I track multiple CMA CGM containers at once?

Yes. CargoEnter can organize multiple CMA CGM containers in shipment workspaces with status, routes, documents, notes, and team follow-up. Available limits depend on the selected CargoEnter plan.

Is CMDU the same as the container owner prefix?

Not always. A SCAC identifies the carrier, while prefixes such as CMAU, CGMU identify registered equipment. Leased equipment can move with another operating carrier.

Why is my CMA CGM shipment not updating?

Verify the complete reference and carrier first. The next physical movement may not yet have been reported by the carrier, terminal, airport, or handling agent.

Does an arrival status mean the CMA CGM shipment is delivered?

Not necessarily. Arrival can describe an intermediate port or airport. Look for a final delivery, release, or equivalent destination event.