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Demurrage & Detention
Calculator

Estimate your D&D costs before they pile up. Enter your free time, daily rates, and days elapsed - see exactly what you'll owe. 100% free.

Shipment details
Daily rates (tiered)
Custom rates

Most carriers use tiered pricing - rates increase the longer the container stays. Adjust to match your carrier's tariff.

Demurrage (at port/terminal)
Detention (outside port)
Total Days
0
elapsed
Chargeable Days
0
after free time
Containers
1
40' Standard
Cost breakdown
Day 1 Day 0
Demurrage
Detention
Demurrage total
$0
Detention total
$0
Total D&D cost
$0
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This is an estimate only. Actual D&D charges vary by carrier, terminal, and contract terms. Always verify with your carrier or freight forwarder.

What is Demurrage & Detention?

Demurrage is the charge applied when a loaded container remains at the port terminal beyond the allowed free time. It's essentially rent for occupying terminal space. Free time is typically 3-7 days depending on the port and carrier.

Detention is the charge applied when the container is taken outside the port (to a warehouse for unpacking) and not returned empty within the allowed free time. Think of it as rental for the container itself.

Together, D&D charges can cost hundreds to thousands of dollars per container. The rates increase the longer you hold the container - creating a tiered pricing structure that escalates quickly.

FREE TIME No charges TIER 1 $75-150/day TIER 2 $150-250/day TIER 3 $250+/day $$$$ Day 1 Day 5 Day 10 Day 15 Day 20+ Costs escalate rapidly after free time →

How to avoid D&D charges

Practical tips to minimize or eliminate demurrage and detention costs.

Set up alerts

Use Tracktainer's demurrage alerts to get notified 3-5 days before free time expires. Plan your pickup in advance.

Pre-clear customs

Submit customs documents before vessel arrival. Clear goods before the container is discharged to minimize port time.

Arrange transport early

Book haulage before arrival. Container pickup delays due to truck availability are a top cause of D&D charges.

Negotiate free time

For regular shipments, negotiate extended free time with your carrier. Even 2-3 extra days can save thousands.

D&D FAQ

Demurrage is charged while the container sits at the port/terminal after free time. Detention is charged when the container is outside the port (at your warehouse) and hasn't been returned empty. You can be charged both simultaneously.

Rates vary widely by port, carrier, and container type. Typical ranges: $50-150/day for the first tier, $100-250/day for the second tier, and $200-400/day for extended periods. 40' containers cost more than 20' containers.

Typically 3-7 free days for demurrage and 4-10 for detention, depending on port, carrier, and your contract. Some carriers offer combined free time (D&D together), others separate them.

Yes. Common grounds: port congestion (not your fault), incorrect free time calculation, carrier-caused delays, or force majeure. Document everything and dispute within 30-60 days depending on carrier policy.

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