Demurrage

The fee charged by steamship lines for use of a container, once free time at a destination terminal expires. Free time normally begins one working day after a container arrives at destination and the typical free time period is five working days. After free time expires, the steamship line will charge a fee per calendar day (on average US$100.00 to $150.00 per day). This rate typically increases after five days. In regards to reefer containers, the normal free time period is less, normally three days, and the rate per day is higher (on average US$200.00 to $300.00 per day). This rate also typically increases after three days. The charge ceases once the empty container is returned to the steamship line.