Definition
A charge for holding the carrier’s container outside the terminal beyond the free time before returning it empty.
Detention is billed when the consignee keeps the carrier’s container for unpacking (or the shipper for packing) longer than the agreed free time, measured from when the box leaves the terminal until it is returned empty. It is charged per container per day.
It is the mirror image of demurrage, which covers time inside the terminal. Together they are a major source of unexpected cost, and forwarders manage them by negotiating free time and turning equipment quickly. Shipper’s owned containers avoid detention entirely.
Related terms
Demurrage
A charge for keeping a container inside the port/terminal beyond the allowed free time.
Free Time
The grace period the carrier allows for using a container or terminal space before demurrage or detention applies.
Shipper’s Owned Container (SOC)
A container owned or leased by the shipper rather than the carrier, avoiding the carrier’s box and detention rules.
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