What is container detention?

Container detention is the fee charged by the ocean carriers when the free time allotted for the use of the ocean container outside the port or rail ramp of arrival expires and the container is still not returned empty to the carrier.

Carriers charge container detention in order to incentivize shippers and consignees to return the containers within a timely manner to facilitate container use for another voyage. Container detention should not be confused with demurrage which is the storage charged by the port when containers sit in port beyond their free time allotted. The amount of detention differs per port and ocean carrier but the typical amount of free time is 4-10 days based upon ocean terminal or rail ramp release.

Container detention frequently occurs when a shipper requests a container drop at their location rather than a “live-unload”. Once the allotted free-time is exceeded the ocean carrier will assess detention charges. Typical container detention fees are between $100-$200 USD per day per container. Exfreight will bill any detention fees once incurred.