How to Monitor Detention, Demurrage, and Container Return Dates
Adel SolimanAugust 28, 2025
Monitoring Detention, Demurrage, and Container Return Dates: The Guide That Will Save You Thousands
Introduction
One of the most painful situations in international shipping: your shipment arrives at port, you think everything is in order — and then you're hit with an invoice carrying numbers you never expected. These figures are usually "demurrage" or "detention" fees, among the most common hidden costs and the most punishing for unprepared importers and exporters.
The good news? With the right understanding and early planning, you can avoid these fees entirely — or at least reduce them to a minimum. That's exactly why this guide exists.
What's the Difference Between Demurrage and Detention?
These terms are often confused, but they refer to two entirely different situations:
Demurrage (port detention fees): Charges imposed by the shipping company if you don't pick up your container from the port within the free period (usually 3 to 7 days). Every extra day of delay = escalating additional cost.
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Detention (off-dock fees): Charges that accumulate if you take the container from the port but don't return it on time. Even if the container is sitting in your warehouse — the clock is ticking.
Understanding this difference is the first step toward managing costs intelligently.
Why Do These Fees Accumulate So Quickly?
The answer is simple: many importers don't know precisely when the free period starts or how it's calculated. Common causes of delays include:
— Late arrival of import documents or incomplete customs files.
— Delays in settling payments to suppliers or shipping companies.
— Warehouse issues or shortage of trucks for inland transport.
— Not knowing how long the free period actually is (more common than you'd think).
How to Calculate Your Container's Free Period
Every shipping company has different policies, but the general steps are:
1. Read the contract carefully: Look for the "Free Days" or "Free Time" clause. This is the number of days available to you at no charge.
2. Identify the start date: Usually the clock starts from the vessel's arrival date (ETA) or from when the container is discharged from the vessel.
3. Calculate the free period end: Add the free days to the start date. This is the last day to pick up or return the container without fees.
4. Set a reminder 2 days early: Don't wait until the last day — plan to pick up or return the container at least 2 days before the deadline.
Shipment Monitoring Tools and Systems
Most major shipping companies offer electronic tracking systems through which you can:
— Track the container's location precisely and know the arrival time.
— View the remaining free period.
— Receive automatic alerts before the free period expires.
Some advanced systems provide comprehensive reports on all your shipments simultaneously, helping companies handling large volumes manage their operations more efficiently.
If you're importing from Turkey, make sure to closely monitor return dates — especially on the Turkey to Jeddah shipping route, which may include intermediate stops that extend transit time.
Practical Tips to Avoid Demurrage Fees
Request a longer free period: Many shipping companies are willing to extend the free period — especially for regular clients. Just ask.
Book customs clearance appointments in advance: Don't wait for the shipment to arrive before starting customs procedures. Begin as soon as the bill of lading is issued.
Coordinate with your freight agent early: A professional agent will automatically alert you before the free period expires.
Have a contingency plan: If documents are delayed, do you have an option to extend the deadline or move to temporary storage? Think ahead.
Don't despair — and don't pay immediately. Sometimes there's room to negotiate. Here are the steps:
1. Verify the calculation: Request an itemized fee statement and confirm all dates are correct.
2. Contact the shipping company: If the delay was caused by circumstances beyond your control (port delays, customs issues), document it and submit a formal dispute.
3. Negotiate: Some companies will reduce or installment fees for regular clients.
Conclusion
Detention and demurrage fees are not inevitable — they're the result of poor planning or insufficient information. With early preparation, good coordination with your freight agent, and careful date monitoring, you can protect your profits and avoid these costly charges.
At DVN LOG, we monitor container deadlines and notify our clients before free periods expire — so you're never caught off guard by unexpected fees. Contact us to learn how we help you manage your shipments with greater efficiency.
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