Detention charges are fees levied by a carrier when a container is retained by the consignee outside the terminal beyond the agreed free-time period before being returned empty, and they form a distinct cost element from demurrage that affects total landed cost.
In trade practice
Buyers should confirm the carrier’s detention-free-time allowance before booking, particularly for reefer containers that may need to remain plugged at a cold store during unloading. Delays in customs clearance or slow unloading at a processing plant are common triggers. Transport managers should track container return deadlines separately from customs milestones and arrange empty returns promptly once unloading is complete.
In a specification
Transport contracts or booking confirmations should state the free-time period for detention separately from demurrage, and may assign liability for detention costs arising from delays attributable to the buyer’s customs documentation or unloading schedule.