Detention and Demurrage: Definition and Examples

What are detention and demurrage?

Detention and demurrage describe charges associated with delays or extended use of transport equipment or terminal space. Their meaning depends on the transport context. Truck waiting time at a loading dock must be distinguished from charges involving ocean containers.

Three situations to distinguish

Truck detention: a driver or vehicle waits at pickup or delivery beyond the agreed free-time allowance.
Container demurrage: a container remains at a marine terminal beyond the applicable free time.
Container detention: carrier equipment is kept outside the terminal beyond the allowed period before return.

Carrier terminology and combined arrangements can differ. Rail demurrage has its own context and rules. Read the relevant tariff, contract and invoice rather than applying one definition to every mode.

What does free time mean?

Free time is the allowance before a particular charge starts. There is no single allowance that applies to every U.S. shipment. The start event, length, calendar treatment, rate and exceptions depend on the applicable arrangement and rules.

For example, a truck arriving on time for a confirmed delivery appointment may wait because a dock is unavailable. That is a different situation from an import container staying at a port after its last free day. The responsible parties, records and charging basis may all differ.

What should be documented?

The appointment and actual arrival or gate-in time.
When loading or unloading started and ended.
Container availability, pickup and equipment-return records where relevant.
The applicable free-time provision and itemized charge.
Communications about delays or inability to collect or return equipment.

Planning a shipment with DAGO Express

Arrange access, receiving staff and loading equipment in advance. Ask which waiting-time terms apply to the quoted transport. This entry does not set DAGO Express waiting-time rates or imply a container transport service.

Frequently asked questions

Are these exclusively U.S. terms?

No. They are used internationally, but U.S. maritime billing and dispute requirements have their own regulatory context.

Does every delay justify a charge?

No automatic conclusion follows from a delay alone. Check the contract, facts and applicable rules. The Federal Maritime Commission provides information on ocean-shipping detention and demurrage.

Related terms: accessorial charges, drayage, delivery appointment.