Detention is a charge imposed by a carrier when its container is kept outside the port or terminal beyond the allowed free time, typically during loading, unloading, or awaiting return of the empty unit.
In trade practice
Detention differs from demurrage in that it applies once the container has left the terminal gate. In frozen food logistics, it commonly arises when a buyer’s cold store is congested or when the empty container cannot be returned promptly after unloading. The carrier’s tariff sets the daily rate and the free-time allowance, which varies by carrier and trade lane. Logistics teams should track container return deadlines alongside delivery appointments to avoid accumulating charges.
In a specification
Logistics contracts should define the free-time period for detention separately from demurrage, identify the liable party, and reference the carrier’s published tariff as the basis for the daily rate.