Free Time
Free time is the number of days a container can be used without demurrage or detention charges. Carriers may grant it separately or combined (dem/det) and usually count calendar days. Example: with 7 free days from discharge, a container returned on day 10 is charged for 3 days. Free time can often be negotiated at booking, so ask for more if customs clearance or stripping is expected to take a while.
Related terms
- 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.
- 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…
- Booking Confirmation
A booking confirmation is the carrier's written confirmation that space on a vessel has been allocated.
Covered in these guides
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