Detention
Container detention
Detention is a charge for keeping a carrier's container outside the port or terminal beyond the free time. It runs until the empty is returned or the full is gated in.
What it is
Detention is a charge raised by the container owner, usually the shipping line or NVOCC, when its container is kept outside the port or terminal for longer than the agreed free time. On imports it runs from the day the full container leaves the terminal until the empty is returned to the nominated depot. On exports it runs from empty pickup until the loaded container is gated in.
How it works in practice
The charge is normally calculated per container per day on a slab tariff: a first band of free days, then daily rates that step up the longer the box is held. Rates differ by container size and type, and by line, port and contract. Usage of the terms also varies. Some carriers bill detention and demurrage as one combined charge, and some trades count time from vessel discharge rather than from gate out.
Why it matters
Detention exists to get equipment back into circulation, since a container sitting at a consignee's premises cannot carry the next booking. For an NVOCC or agent it is both a revenue line and a frequent source of disputes, because the amount depends on exact dates of discharge, gate out and empty return. Waivers and extended free time are common commercial concessions and need to be recorded with their authority.
In Sailix
How Sailix handles it
Sailix holds detention slab tariffs in an Agent Detention and Demurrage Profile by line and port, per container type and currency. On imports it calculates detention when a delivery order is issued or its validity is extended, and again at empty return, raises detention invoices, and records B/L-based waivers. A container detention workflow screen tracks detention charges across container movements.
- Detention and demurrageSlab tariffs by line and port drive detention on delivery orders and extensions, with invoices and waivers on record.
- Free days managementRecord extra free days per container against a B/L or booking, route them for approval, and keep import detention waivers.
- Empty return and repairRegister empty returns against the delivery order, capture M&R estimates for damaged units, and raise the repair invoice.
Related terms
- DemurrageDemurrage is a charge for a container or cargo left inside the port or terminal beyond free time. It applies before pickup on import or loading on export.
- Free daysFree days are the period a container may be used or held without detention or demurrage charges. The carrier's tariff or a contract sets the allowance.
- Delivery orderA delivery order is the carrier's or agent's instruction to release cargo or containers to the consignee. It is addressed to the terminal, depot or CFS and names the consignee or its agent.
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