Container Demurrage fees are charged when import containers are under the shipping line’s control.  A free period is allotted from the time the container is discharged from the vessel to the time it is delivered to the terminal. On expiry of the free period, demurrage charges are applied for retention of containers whilst it remain in the Carriers’ terminal, inland depot, or container yard (note this charge should not be confused with storage charges, which are levied by Terminal Operators).

The demurrage period ends the day when the container is picked up and gated out from the terminal.

Container Detention occurs when the consignee retains the carrier’s container outside of the port, terminal, or depot beyond the free time that is allotted by the Carrier. Detention is charged when import containers have been collected and the container is still in the possession of the consignee and has not been returned within the allotted free time offered by the Carriers.