Resources · Avoiding pitfalls
Port and container charges explained
What demurrage, detention and port storage charges are, how they are calculated, who pays them, and how to stop daily charges from piling up.
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Demurrage is charged when a container stays at the terminal beyond the free period; detention is charged when an empty container isn't returned within the free period after pickup; the terminal charges storage separately. All three accrue daily, and the best defence is having the clearance documents ready before the ship arrives.
Information updated: 2026-10-03
How the three charges differ
| Charge | Charged by | When it starts | How to avoid it |
|---|---|---|---|
| Demurrage | Shipping line | Container still at the terminal after the free period | Complete clearance preparation before arrival |
| Detention | Shipping line | Empty container not returned within the free period after pickup | Return the empty container soon after unloading |
| Storage | Terminal | Cargo in the terminal yard beyond the free storage period | Collect the container quickly |
Why it happens so easily at African ports
- Port congestion: queuing to collect containers and waiting for inspection slots both eat into the free period.
- Clearance system issues: for example, during Nigeria's 2025 clearance system changeover, there were reports of large numbers of containers stuck at the port because of system failures.
- Incomplete documents: discovering a missing certificate or permit only after arrival means the charges keep rising while it's being obtained.
- Hard to return empties: some ports have a backlog of empty containers, so returning one also means queuing.
How to keep it under control
- Ask about the free container period when booking, and request an extension if needed.
- Give the clearance documents to the clearing party before the ship arrives and file early.
- Confirm who bears overtime charges: with a duties-included door-to-door service, ask in which cases they would be charged separately.
- The consignee should arrange the unloading site and labour in advance, and return the container soon after unloading.