Home / Logistics Knowledge / Demurrage, Detention, and Free Time Explained
Two of the most common and avoidable FCL cost surprises are demurrage and detention. Here is what each one is and how to stay inside the free window.
Free time is the number of days a container can sit without charge, either at the port or out with you. Once it ends, demurrage or detention begins and accrues every day.
Demurrage is charged when the full container stays at the carrier's terminal beyond the free period after discharge, before you pick it up. It is a port-storage fee.
Detention is charged when you have taken the container out but have not returned the empty to the depot within the free period, after you unstuff it. It is a container-use fee.
Both are per-day and both start from discharge, but demurrage is about the box sitting at the terminal, while detention is about the box being out and unreturned. Some carriers quote a combined free time that covers both.
| Charge | Where the box is | Common trigger |
|---|---|---|
| Demurrage | At the port terminal | You collect late after discharge |
| Detention | Out with the customer | You return the empty late |
Demurrage is port storage while the full container waits at the terminal; detention is the fee for keeping the container out and returning the empty late.
It varies by carrier, port, and trade lane, but import free time is often around 3 to 7 days. Confirm the exact number on your booking.
Sometimes, for a fee or as a negotiated allowance, especially with regular volume. Request it before the container arrives.
Responsibility follows the contract and Incoterms. If your forwarder controls the delayed leg, they are usually accountable for the resulting charge.
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