Pricing & Surcharges
Demurrage
A penalty charge when a full container remains at the port or terminal beyond the agreed free time after arrival. Distinct from detention, which applies to equipment held outside the port.
In depth
Demurrage compensates the carrier or terminal when containers sit inside the port beyond free time. It is distinct from detention (equipment outside the port). Rates escalate over tiers: day 1–5, 6–10, etc., so delays get expensive quickly.
Key points
- Applies to container inside port/terminal (import or export side)
- Negotiate free days in the carrier contract where possible
- Customs holds do not always pause demurrage: plan clearance early
- Separate from storage/warehouse charges