Demurrage & Detention
The Charges That Sneak Up On Importers

Two separate port and container charges that both grow the longer cargo sits. Understanding the difference is the first step to avoiding them.

The Basics

What These Charges Actually Are

Both charges penalize delay, but at different points in the container's journey.

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Demurrage, At The Port

Demurrage is charged by the terminal or shipping line when a container sits at the port beyond its free time, before it's picked up.

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Detention, After Pickup

Detention is charged once the container has left the port but hasn't been returned (empty) to the shipping line within the allotted free time.

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Free Time Is Limited

Every shipping line and terminal grants a set number of free days before charges start, often just a handful of days, so delays add up quickly.

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Charges Escalate Daily

Both demurrage and detention typically increase the longer the delay continues, sometimes stepping up to higher daily rates after an initial grace period.

Good To Know

Avoiding Demurrage & Detention

The practical levers that actually reduce these charges.

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File Early

Filing your Goods Declaration and supporting documents before or right at vessel arrival is the single biggest lever. It lets Customs assessment begin before the free-time clock starts working against you.

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Get Documents Right The First Time

Missing paperwork or classification disputes are common causes of delay. Accurate, complete documentation upfront avoids the back-and-forth that eats into free time.

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Arrange Transport In Advance

Having onward transport booked and ready before clearance completes means the container moves out immediately once released, rather than sitting while a truck is arranged.

Related Reading

Related Customs Topics

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FAQ

Demurrage & Detention Questions, Answered

What importers ask once these charges show up on an invoice.

What's the actual difference between demurrage and detention? expand_more
Demurrage applies while the container is still at the port terminal, before pickup. Detention applies after the container has left the port but hasn't yet been returned empty to the shipping line. They can both apply to the same shipment at different stages.
How many free days do I typically get before charges start? expand_more
Free time varies by shipping line, terminal, and contract. It's typically a small number of days, not weeks. Check your specific bill of lading or service contract rather than assuming a standard figure, since this varies significantly between carriers.
Can demurrage and detention charges be negotiated or waived? expand_more
Sometimes, particularly if the delay was caused by the carrier or terminal rather than the importer (e.g. a documented port congestion issue), but this depends on the specific carrier's policy and isn't guaranteed.

Avoid demurrage with early filing

Our agents file your Goods Declaration ahead of arrival wherever possible, to keep dwell time, and charges, down.

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