Detention
A charge imposed on a shipper or consignee for keeping a carrier's container outside the terminal beyond the permitted free time.
Full Definition
Detention charges arise when a shipping container has been removed from the port or terminal for loading or unloading purposes but is not returned to the carrier's depot within the allotted free days. It is the counterpart to demurrage, which applies within the terminal. The detention/demurrage pairing is one of the most frequently confused term pairs in freight documentation, and editors should apply each term with precision. Detention should not be used loosely to refer to any penalty charge in a logistics context.
Usage
Usage note: Not interchangeable with 'demurrage'. Detention = container outside the terminal; demurrage = container inside the terminal.
In Context
- "The trucking company was billed for detention after the container sat at the distribution centre for ten days." — Carrier invoice dispute documentation
- "Detention applies after the container leaves the terminal; demurrage applies while it remains there—editors must maintain this distinction." — Freight terminology training document