GlossaryEN1 min readUpdated: Jun 26, 2026

Detention

Detention charges arise once a container has left the port or terminal and the agreed free time for its off-site use has expired.

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Last updated: 26 June 2026Published: 27 January 2026

Source: https://www.investopedia.com/terms/d/detention.asp

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Logistics Concept

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Definition & Explanation

Detention charges arise once a container has left the port or terminal and the agreed free time for its off-site use has expired. From that point on, the shipping line or equipment lessor levies daily fees that typically escalate with each additional day. In ocean freight, detention is one of the most common sources of unexpected cost overruns; freight forwarders play a key role in alerting clients before free time lapses. The distinction with demurrage is clear-cut: demurrage applies while the container sits at the terminal awaiting collection, detention applies once it has been collected but not yet returned. Both charges can run concurrently on the same shipment, and neither should be conflated with storage fees charged by off-dock warehouse operators.

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Check demurrage/detentionCalculate standing charges and free timeOpen Check sea freight costEstimate FCL/LCL costOpen Find HS codeDetermine the tariff number for customsOpen Calculate customs valueWork out import duties and customs valueOpen

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