Understand container detention charge, detention fees, container-free period and stacking-free period in foreign trade

1. Analysis of core concepts

1. Box-free period Free Demurrage
   Refers to the period during which Carrier allows the free use of Container, from the lifting of empty containers to the return of heavy containers (EXP) or the lifting of heavy containers to the return of empty containers (import). Ordinary cabinets are usually 7 days, and the Special of refrigerated cabinets, frame cabinets, etc. may be shortened to 3-6 days. Container detention charge will be charged on a daily basis after the expiration date, and the fee standard varies from Carrier to Carrier.
2. Stacking-free period Free Storage
   Refers to the period during which the port/yard allows free storage of Container, the time period from unloading the container to picking up the goods. Most ports default to 7 days, and some ports (such as the Port of Oakland in the United States) will shorten it to 4 days. After the expiration date, the detention fee will be charged according to the volume or weight of the goods.

2. Cost comparison and responsible subjects

3. Operational suggestions and loss avoidance guidelines

1. Accurately grasp the time window
   • EXP process: The container-free period starts from the pick-up of empty containers, and the stacking-free period starts from the return of heavy containers to Exp-Date, ETD.
   • Import process: The stacking-free period is from Break bulk to Exp-Date, and the container-free period is from the container pickup to the return of empty containers in Exp-Date.
2. Key measures to avoid expenses
   • Start the customs clearance process 3 days in advance to avoid holiday delays.
   • When shipping in Special, apply directly to Carrier for a written container-free period extension.
   • The "vehicle-ship direct pick-up" mode is adopted. After picking up the cabinet, it is directly transported to the yard to dig out the box, and the box return action is completed simultaneously.
3. Special scene processing
   • SOC container (owner's own container): It only involves detention fees and does not incur container detention charge.
   • Force majeure factors: retain official supporting documents (e.g. typhoon warning, strike notice), and you can apply for a maximum 70% fee reduction.

4. Answers to high-frequency questions

Q: Will the container-free period and the stack-free period be calculated superimposed?
A: Some ports adopt an overlapping calculation mechanism. For example, the container-free period and the stacking-free period are combined into 7 days, which needs to be confirmed with the local agent in advance.

Q: Can container detention charge and detention fees be incurred at the same time?
A: Maybe. For example, if the goods are not delivered within 10 days after arrival in Hong Kong, the first 7 days are free, and the detention fee (the goods are detained in the yard) and container detention charge (not returned by Container) will be paid from the 8th day.