Demurrage and detention意思

Demurrage and detention are terms commonly used in the context of international shipping and logistics. They refer to charges that may be incurred when cargo is not loaded or discharged from a vessel or container in a timely manner.

Demurrage: Demurrage refers to the charges that the shipping line or terminal operator may impose on the cargo owner or consignee for keeping the container at the port or terminal beyond the free time allowed. The free time is typically a certain number of days provided by the shipping line to load or unload the container without incurring additional charges. Once this free time expires, demurrage charges may apply on a daily basis until the container is moved.

Detention: Detention, on the other hand, refers to the charges that may be incurred for keeping the container beyond the free time allowed outside the port or terminal, such as at a warehouse, a distribution center, or a private location. These charges are typically applied by the shipping line or container leasing company for each day the container is held beyond the free time period.

Both demurrage and detention charges are designed to encourage swift movement of containers and to ensure that port and terminal operations run efficiently. They are intended to cover the costs incurred by the shipping line or terminal operator due to the late return of the container, such as additional storage costs, handling fees, and the loss of the container's use for other customers.

It's important for importers and exporters to understand the demurrage and detention policies of the shipping lines they use and to plan accordingly to avoid these charges. They should also be aware that the terms and conditions of these charges can vary among shipping lines and may be subject to local regulations.