Demurrage is charged when a container stays inside the port terminal beyond free time. Detention is charged when a container leaves the terminal but is not returned empty within the allowed free time. Carriers set both in their tariffs.
After the free-time period set by the carrier ends. Free time begins at discharge or arrival notice, depending on the carrier.
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Pick up the container before the last free day, arrange delivery appointments in advance, and return the empty within its detention free time. Some carriers combine demurrage and detention into one free-time period, so confirm the terms in your contract.
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