Estimate demurrage and detention fees based on container type, free time, and actual days at port.
Tiered rates help you understand cost escalation over time.
Use this tool to avoid unexpected charges during delays.
Demurrage & Detention Calculator | Port Storage Fees
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Demurrage & Detention Calculator
Calculate demurrage (port storage) and detention (container usage) charges for your shipment.
Understanding Demurrage & Detention
Demurrage: Charges applied when cargo remains at the port/terminal beyond the allowed free time. This is a port/terminal charge.
Detention:Charges applied when you keep the shipping line's container beyond the allowed free time. This is a carrier charge.
Free Time: The number of days allowed (usually 5-10 days) to pick up cargo or return containers without charges.
Tip: Plan your logistics carefully to avoid these charges. They can accumulate quickly and significantly increase your shipping costs.
How D&D charges work in Australia
- Chargeable days = max(0, actual days − free time). Tiers (e.g. days 1–5, 6–10, 11+) escalate the daily rate — the deeper you go, the more it costs.
- Demurrage is charged by the terminal/port (e.g. DP World, Patrick, VICT). Detention is charged by the shipping line (e.g. Maersk, COSCO, ONE).
- Free time at major AU ports is typically 3–7 days for import demurrage and 7–14 days for detention — always confirm in your B/L or carrier contract.
- ⚠ Reefer / hazardous / OOG (out-of-gauge) containers have shorter free time and higher daily rates — sometimes 3–5× standard.
- ⚠ Biosecurity (DAFF) holds and customs inspections do NOT pause D&D — the clock keeps running. Pre-clearance helps.
- Combined “merchant haulage” / “carrier haulage” arrangements can shift detention liability — check who’s responsible at each leg.
Estimates only — final pricing depends on actual cargo, route, season, and carrier capacity. Get a binding quote before committing.
References: DP World Australia tariffs · Patrick Terminals · DAFF Biosecurity · Australian Border Force
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