What is Container Detention Charges
and How much does it cost ?
Import and Export shipping containers are used to move the Import and
Export cargo 's on the container ships .The containers are essential to
the efficient cargo flow of all Import & Export cargo movements.
When
the supplies of shipping containers are delayed or are running low due
to the late return of the import containers , it may impede the
efficient flow to the entire supply chain of international cargo.
To
alleviate the late return of Containers, detention charges are imposed
by the shipping lines for the containers unreturned to the designated
return location within the allowed free time period.
Shipping
lines may vary their allowable “free time limits”, but generally it
ranges from seven to ten calendar days (including public holidays and
weekends) depending on the type of container used.
When does free time begin ?
The “free time” begins
from the first day the container is made available on the wharf. This
is often a source of contention and some Importers may think that the
“free time” commences when they collect the container.
However
this is incorrect a container may be made available on the wharf but
the importers still need to comply with the various Customs and
Quarantine border processing requirements. Anytime a container is held
up in border processing, this is still considered to fall in the “free
time” period.
Should you require specialised container equipment, Freight Rates for Export Shipment (FCL/LCL) or if you have any further questions please contact us click Here.