Detention

Detention Fees: An Overview

Detention and demurrage charges are quite similar, although they occur in different locations. While demurrage occurs inside the port or terminals, the reverse is the case for detentions because it occurs outside the ports and terminals. However, in both cases, there is a period of time allocated for the shipper, also known as free time, to bring in the containers before it is too late.

What are Container Detention Fees?

Detention Fees refers to the charges incurred when a container is not returned to the carrier within the allowed free time after it has been picked up from the port or terminal. These fees are applied per diem (per day) and can accumulate quickly, adding significant costs to shipping operations. Detention charges begin once the free time expires and continue until the container is returned to the carrier.

The entire idea is for the detention to serve as a punishment that will discourage and deter shippers from holding or detaining the containers for too long. Many times, when shippers hold containers for too long, it can throw the entire carrier's operation into a state of chaos. The detention charges will often lead to disputes, so they are supervised by gov agencies like FMC.

Take, for example, a shipper who clears out the container and takes it out of the port facility to a warehouse nearby to unload the container, but a prior agreement with the carrier allowed for a week to empty out the container and return it to the port. The detention charges ensure that these shippers return the container on time to avoid paying the charges, which can easily double or triple the entire shipping expense. On the other hand, if the shipper decides to surpass the agreed-upon timeframe, the carrier is still in a win-win situation.

**What Detention is Not in The Shipping Industry**

Because detention is also a legal term that could connote arrest, it is often confusing for beginners in the shipping industry. Detention is not an arrest made on ships on personnel in the shipping industry. Although that may happen when a ship is suspected of nefarious crimes and could lead to other forms of detention, such as pre-trial detention, in this case, the term is used to demonstrate only the charges a shipper will have to pay when it holds onto the container for too long

Managing Detention Fees in Shipping Operations

Detention charges are agreed-upon charges that will come into effect when a shipper holds onto a cargo for too long. Not unlike a detained cargo. However, detention charges are crucial for several reasons:

Cost Management: Helps control and reduce additional shipping costs associated with the extended use of containers.
Operational Efficiency: Prompt return of containers ensures efficient utilization of the carrier’s equipment and discourages prolonged holding.
Resource Optimization: Ensures timely return of containers, allowing for optimal use of carrier equipment.
Supply Chain Management: Effective management of detention leads to smoother logistics operations and better resource allocation.
Operational Planning: Facilitates better planning and scheduling of container movements and storage.

Operational Impact of Detention Fees

Managing detention charges effectively is critical to maintaining operational and financial efficiency in shipping operations. By avoiding or minimizing these fees, companies can reduce their shipping costs and improve container turnaround times.

Comparison with Related Terms

Term

Definition

Context

Demurrage

Charges for containers that remain at the port beyond the allowed free time.

Applies when containers are not cleared from the port on time.

Per Diem

Daily rate or charge for exceeding free time, whether in the port or outside.

Flat daily fee applicable in both port and outside port contexts.

Storage Fees

A type of charge for storing containers at a terminal or warehouse

General fees for storage that may include demurrage and detention.

How to Manage Detention

Effective management of detention charges involves:

Monitoring: Closely track the free time and detention deadlines for each container. Keeping
Negotiation: Negotiate terms and free time allowances with carriers in advance to get favorable conditions.
Proactive Management: Implement strategies to ensure timely unloading and return of containers.

Practical Tips for Avoiding Detention Fees

Efficient Unloading: Ensure quick unloading of containers once you have taken custody of them to facilitate their timely return.
Track Deadlines: Use tracking systems to monitor free time and set reminders for detention deadlines.
Negotiate Free Time: Work with carriers to negotiate longer free time periods based on your shipping volumes and reliability.
Plan Ahead: Schedule and coordinate container movements to avoid delays in returning containers.

How Hapag-Lloyd Managed To Reduce Detention Fees

In the bustling US Gulf Coast ports, Hapag-Lloyd, a prominent global shipping line, experienced a significant surge in detention charges in the third quarter of 2023. An unforeseen combination of factors, including port congestion, labor shortages, and inland transportation bottlenecks, led to prolonged dwell times for containers, triggering substantial detention fees for shippers.

Data analysis revealed that Hapag-Lloyd's average detention time per container in the US Gulf Coast region rose by 35% during this period, reaching an average of 12 days, well beyond the standard free time. This resulted in a 40% increase in detention charges for shippers, causing financial strain and operational disruptions.

Hapag-Lloyd proactively engaged with stakeholders, including shippers, port authorities, and trucking companies to mitigate this issue. They implemented measures such as extending free time periods, offering flexible return options, and prioritizing container availability for high-demand routes. Additionally, Hapag-Lloyd invested in technology solutions to optimize container tracking and yard management, improving visibility and coordination throughout the supply chain.

These efforts gradually yielded positive results, with detention times decreasing by 20% by the end of the fourth quarter of 2023.

Terminal49 Solutions for Managing Detention Fees

Terminal49 offers advanced solutions to help manage and minimize detention charges:

Real-Time Tracking: Provides real-time visibility into container status, helping you track free time, avoid detention fees, and improve decision-making.
Automated Notifications: Sends notice and alerts for detention deadlines, allowing you to take timely action.
Centralized Dashboard: Consolidates data from various sources into a single platform, making managing container movements and deadlines easier.

By leveraging Terminal49’s solutions, shippers can effectively manage detention, reducing unnecessary costs and enhancing operational efficiency. Schedule a demo with Terminal49 to explore how our solutions can help optimize your shipping operations.