Demurrage
In container shipping, demurrage is the charge a shipping line levies when its container stays in the terminal beyond the free time, such as an import box not yet collected. Rates are usually tiered per day and set by the line; check its official tariff. Demurrage is separate from terminal storage charges and from detention. In ship chartering the word means compensation for delays in loading or discharging the vessel, not the container.
Related terms
- Detention
Detention is the charge a shipping line levies when its container is outside the terminal beyond the free time, for example at the consignee's warehouse for stripping, until it is…
- Free Time
Free time is the number of days a container can be used without demurrage or detention charges.
- Dwelling Time
Dwelling time is how long an import container stays in the terminal, from discharge off the vessel until it leaves the port gate.
- Delivery Order (DO)
A delivery order is the instruction from the carrier or its agent at destination to release the container to the consignee.
Covered in these guides
Demurrage and Detention Explained: Free Time, Storage and How to Avoid Them
The difference between demurrage, detention and terminal storage, how free time and tiered tariffs work, a hypothetical example and the documents that delay release.
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Export steps for Indonesian SMEs, from an OSS business ID, HS code and Incoterms to FOB pricing, packing, forwarders, the PEB, payment risk and small shipments.
6 min read Load calculations20ft vs 40ft vs 40HC Containers: Volume, Weight and Cost per m³
Compare 20GP, 40GP and 40HC containers on volume, payload, floor area, pallet count and cost per cubic metre, with practical rules for choosing the right size.
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