Costs and charges
Free time
The number of days a shipping line allows before demurrage and detention charges begin.
In four languages
Free time is the grace period for using the carrier's container at no extra charge, inside and outside the terminal. It commonly ranges from about 3 to 14 days depending on the carrier, port, contract and equipment, and reefers and special containers usually get less. Extra free time can often be bought when booking, which is usually cheaper than paying demurrage or detention afterwards. Terminal storage may have its own separate free period. Example: a Sharjah importer knows its goods need invoice attestation, a product approval and possibly a customs inspection. Before shipping, it asks the forwarder to negotiate extended free time for the destination, so a few days of paperwork do not turn into daily charges while the container waits at the port.
Questions
How many free days do I get at destination?
It depends on the carrier, the port and your contract, commonly about 3 to 14 days. Your quote or booking confirmation should state it.
Can I get more free time?
Often yes, if requested at booking. Carriers may grant or sell extended free time depending on the port and equipment.