* Detention vs Demurrage *

[SK]

* Free days or Free time is the agreed time period during which an importer may move out the container out of the port or bring back the empty container to the port within the allotted time. The free time period starts when the container is unloading from the vessel onto the port terminal and the amount of free period days vary depending upon the carrier and port terminal. It is necessary to be aware of the free days at the terminal to avoid charges.

* Demurrage

Def 1) Demurrage charge is levied when the importer has not picked up the full container from the port or unpacked the container within the allotted free days. After the free time, demurrage fee is incurred, which keeps increasing for the additional days. 

Def 2) Demurrage is charged by the shipping line per day per container from the date of discharge till the full container is moved out of the port or terminal for unpacking. 

* Detention

Def 1) Detention is charged per day per container from that time till the empty container is returned to the shipping line's nominated depot.

Def 2) The container can be taken from the port terminal for unpacking or for loading, depending upon the import or export. Either way, if the container is not returned to port terminal within the allotted free time then detention charge/fee is applicable.

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Other good links...

1. = https://www.seaboardmarine.com/demurrage-detention/

2. = https://www.flexport.com/glossary/last-free-day/

3. = https://www.joc.com/rail-intermodal/intermodal-shipping/us-railroads-tightening-free-time-inland-terminals_20210601.html

4. = https://container-xchange.com/blog/demurrage-detention/

5. =