Understand the most misunderstood charges in ocean freight—and how to avoid them.
In the world of international logistics, few terms cause more confusion than Demurrage and Detention. These charges often appear on a shipping invoice, but rarely are they properly explained. In reality, they are two different fees related to delays at different stages of the supply chain.
In this article, we’ll clarify the differences, show you how they are calculated, and most importantly—how to avoid them.
What Is Demurrage?
Demurrage is a charge imposed by the shipping line when a container stays at the port or terminal beyond the allowed “free time.”
Demurrage in Imports:
- Begins once the container is offloaded from the vessel.
- Applies if the container is not picked up or customs cleared within the free period.
Demurrage in Exports:
- Applies when a full container is delivered to the port for export, but is not loaded onto the vessel within the free time.
- Common causes: vessel delays, rollover, documentation issues.
Note: Demurrage is charged per container per day, and rates typically increase progressively.
What Is Detention?
Detention is a charge that applies when a container stays outside the port, in the possession of the consignee (for imports) or shipper (for exports), beyond the free time allowed for container usage.
Detention in Imports:
- Begins once the container is picked up from the port.
- Applies if the empty container is not returned within the agreed time frame.
Detention in Exports:
- Applies when a shipper picks up an empty container from the terminal and holds it too long before returning it loaded.
Note: Detention is also charged per container per day.
Comparison Table
| Parameter | Demurrage (Import & Export) | Detention (Import & Export) |
| Location | Port / Terminal | Outside port (with customer/shipper) |
| Time Period | Import: After discharge Export: Before vessel loading |
Import: After pickup Export: After empty pickup |
| Applies To | Delay in pickup (import) or loading (export) | Delay in returning empty (import) or loading container (export) |
| Charged As | Per day, per container | Per day, per container |
Why It Matters
These charges can significantly impact the cost of a shipment. They can arise due to:
- Delayed customs clearance (import)
- Poor coordination with warehouses or shipping lines
- Documentation issues or missing cut-offs
- Internal delivery or stuffing delays (export)
Prevention is key. A single day of delay can cost €75–€200 per container depending on the shipping line and port.
How to Avoid Demurrage and Detention
- Pre-plan Documentation: Ensure all paperwork is prepared before vessel arrival (import) or container pickup (export).
- Start Customs or Booking Early: Begin customs clearance and secure vessel bookings promptly.
- Ensure Truck Availability: Schedule trucking for pickup and return of containers in advance.
- Work with a Trusted Forwarder: A reliable partner can plan, manage, and mitigate delays.
- Request Additional Free Time: In some cases, you can negotiate extended free days before shipping.
The Role of Marinair Cargo Services
At Marinair, we understand how critical it is to avoid unnecessary charges. That’s why:
- We manage document flow in real-time
- We notify clients early about free time, deadlines, and cut-off dates
- We coordinate closely with customs and depots
- We offer 24/7 support for high-risk or time-sensitive shipments
With experience in major ports like Piraeus, Rotterdam, Hong Kong, and Dubai, we actively minimize delays and cost risks for both imports and exports.
Conclusion
Demurrage and Detention are different—but equally important. They apply to both import and export shipments, each at different stages. Understanding them, planning ahead, and having experienced support are the best ways to avoid them.
Want to make sure your next shipment avoids these surprises?
Contact Marinair Cargo Services – we’re by your side from vessel discharge to empty return—and from empty pickup to on-time loading.
