What are Demurrage and Detention
Charges?
Demurrage charge is raised when the full container is not moved out of the port/terminal for
unpacking within the allowed *free days.
Whereas detention charge is raised when the empty container has not been returned to the nominated
depot within the agreed *free time.
*Free Time:
The free time determines the number of days a shipper can use the container for free. If the free
time is exceeded, the user has to pay a demurrage and detention charge. In case of booking
cancellation, no free time is applicable.
Who Charges it?
Containers are owned or leased by shipping lines, hence demurrage and detention are charged by
them.
Such high per diem charges might be unjust and unreasonable for project freight forwarders.
However,
shipping lines impose these charges to ensure the efficient use of their containers. A few years
ago, these charges were minimal and rare. However, today they are quite common and can easily exceed
your shipment budget.
What Causes Demurrage and Detention?
Demurrage and detention charges can arise due to one of the following reasons: –
- Miscommunication or delays caused due to incorrect or incomplete documentation.
- Late receipt or loss of documents. For example, a sea freight exporter in India is late
in
sending the documents to the other partners/parties that are involved. - Customs clearance delays. Containers being held up by customs for inspection and examination.
- Improper handling of goods.
- Circumstances beyond your control – shortage of truck/trolleys, labor strikes, terminal
congestion/ traffic, bad weather/natural disaster, the Covid-19 pandemic, etc - Delay in payment etc.
Note: Free time, detention and demurrage charges and various other terms and conditions vary
from one country to another. Ocean freight forwarders or air freight forwarders, need
to refer to each
country’s specific tariffs for the exact pricing details.
Can Demurrage and Detention Charges Be
Reduced or Avoided?
The answer to this question is, yes! Proper planning, availability of labor, transport, and
appropriate administrative functions can reduce or even avoid these charges. Having an effective
communication network with contacts at the port, clearing agents, etc. is also crucial.
In most cases, demurrage and detention are hard to control in the freight forwarding process.
However, the good news is that they can be seriously mitigated with the help of an experienced,
customer service-oriented project freight forwarder.
A reputed and experienced project freight forwarder will help you in the following ways.
- The freight forwarder will let you know when the last free day is for a given shipment
- They will monitor the progress of the shipment
- Will offer alternative solutions should the possibility of demurrage/ detention arise
- Will offer budget-friendly service.
If you are looking for one such reputable logistics company in India – try New Globe Group
for a
hassle-free shipping experience. One of the best logistics services companies in Mumbai, New
Globe
Group has years of experience in domestic/international shipment. With transparent dealings, a
client centric approach, and timely execution, the team will help you minimize/avoid any kind of
unwanted shipping charges.
New Globe Group offers a range of services. Whether it’s air freight forwarding, ocean freight
forwarding process, ground transportation service, dangerous goods packaging services, or custom
clearance, etc – the team provides a one-stop solution to all your freight needs. So if you are looking for an air freight importer/exporter in India, sea freight importer/exporter in India, or a custom broker in India – get in touch with the New Globe team today. The team will offer you the best possible service, as per your needs.