# unloading

/ənˈɫoʊdɪŋ/ (US) · /ʌnlˈəʊdɪŋ/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/unloading
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

the act of removing things from a vehicle, such as a truck, ship, or plane. It is the opposite of loading.

For teachers: the removal of cargo or goods from a vehicle or container. Often refers to the physical labor or the logistical phase of a transport operation.

## Examples

- The unloading of the truck takes about an hour.
- The dock workers began the unloading of the cargo ship as soon as it was safely moored.
- Efficient unloading is critical to supply chain management, as any delay at the warehouse dock can cause a significant backlog for the entire delivery fleet.

## Usage notes

- Often functions as a gerund noun; frequently followed by the preposition 'of'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.