What is the difference between demurrage and detention?
Quick answerDemurrage = inside the port (free 5–7 days after discharge). Detention = outside the port (free 7–14 days from pickup). Both are per-day, escalating, and can hit at the same time if clearance is slow and unpacking is slower. Ask for free-time terms at booking — extensions are cheaper than penalties.
Where each applies
Demurrage: terminal storage while the container waits for clearance or pickup.
Detention: the box is out of the terminal but not returned empty.
Export side: detention starts when the empty box is picked up and ends when the full box is returned.
How to reduce exposure
Pre-clear customs before vessel arrival.
Request extended free time at booking for congested ports or holiday periods.
If exceeded, negotiate a flat settlement — daily rates escalate steeply.
| Charge | Location | Typical free time |
|---|---|---|
| Demurrage | inside terminal | 5–7 days |
| Detention | outside terminal | 7–14 days |
| Export detention | empty pick-up to return | 5–7 days |
Frequently asked questions
- Who pays demurrage?
- Normally the consignee, but if the delay is caused by shipper documentation errors, carriers may pursue the shipper.
- Can free time be extended?
- Yes, request it at booking; reefers and special equipment often get shorter free time, not longer.
Need a live rate for your lane? Search free on jhz56.com — 20GP / 40GP / 40HQ quotes from multiple forwarders, no sign-up required.
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Rates from China to all countries
Weekly China export freight index
Source: Juhe Zhuang rate platform (jhz56.com) market data and carrier documentation. Figures are reference ranges, not transaction prices; verify with your forwarder before booking.