GlossaryEN1 min readUpdated: Jun 26, 2026
Port demurrage
Shipowners and charterers levy port demurrage when a vessel remains at berth beyond the laytime stipulated in the charter party or bill of lading.
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Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Demurrage
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Shipowners and charterers levy port demurrage when a vessel remains at berth beyond the laytime stipulated in the charter party or bill of lading. It compensates the shipowner for productive vessel time lost to slow cargo operations, terminal congestion, or administrative delays attributable to the shipper or consignee. Rates are contractually agreed and differ substantially by vessel type, trade lane, and market conditions; once laytime expires, time runs continuously in hours or days. Port demurrage is distinct from detention: the former applies to the vessel itself lying idle at the quay, while detention covers container storage costs accruing after the box has left the terminal gate.
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