Demurrage is charged when a container stays inside the terminal past its free time. Detention, often called per diem, is charged when the container stays outside the terminal past its free time. Container drayage planned before the vessel arrives is the best way to avoid both.
Demurrage vs Detention Explained
| Feature | Demurrage | Detention (per diem) |
|---|---|---|
| Where the container is | Inside the terminal | Outside the terminal |
| When the clock stops | When it gates out | When it is returned |
| Typical causes | Holds, no truck or appointment | Slow unloading, late empty return |
How the Charges Are Calculated
Rates often rise in tiers the longer a container is held. Free time and rates come from the carrier's tariff and your contract, so negotiate free time before booking.
What Is Container Drayage?
Container drayage is the short truck move between a port or rail terminal and your warehouse, plus the return of the empty container. Pickup stops the demurrage clock, and returning the empty stops detention. Booking drayage early, with a terminal appointment and a chassis, keeps both clocks short.
6-Step Checklist to Avoid Fees
- Negotiate free time before booking.
- File the ISF and customs entry early with an accurate HTS code.
- Pay freight and get the freight release before arrival.
- Book drayage, the terminal appointment, and a chassis when the vessel departs.
- Track the last free day and unload promptly.
- Return empties quickly and keep the interchange receipts.
Shipping smaller volumes? LCL shipping avoids container demurrage and detention altogether.
How Marinex Keeps Containers Moving
Marinex Logistics connects ocean freight, customs brokerage, and road transportation, including container drayage, FTL, LTL, cross-border (Canada–Mexico) trucking, and rail intermodal. Coordinating customs release and drayage with one team helps containers leave the terminal before the last free day.
People Also Ask
What is per diem in container shipping?
In the US, per diem usually means the daily detention charge for keeping a carrier's container outside the terminal beyond free time, until it is returned.
Who pays demurrage and detention?
Usually the party that contracted for the carriage or the consignee, depending on the bill of lading and the contract.
What does a container drayage company do?
It moves containers between port or rail terminals and warehouses and returns the empties.
Plan Your Next Container Pickup:
Share your vessel schedule and warehouse details, and we will plan the drayage around your free time. See our transportation services or request a quote.