Container Demurrage & Detention Fee Calculator

Avoid the nightmare per-diem trap. Calculate terminal storage and carrier equipment penalty fees before gate-out.

The Port Dispatcher Rule:
• Demurrage (Inside Terminal): Container remains inside the marine terminal past free time without gate-out.
• Detention (Outside Terminal): Empty container is held outside past free days without return to carrier yard.
Standard carrier free time: 4 to 7 calendar days. Penalty scales progressively up to $350/day after day 10.
Overstay Days
7 Days
Avg Daily Per-Diem
$180 / day
Total Estimated Penalty
$2,520
LONG BEACH PIER T • DISPATCH TRAP

The $14,000 Chasis & Demurrage Bill

During the 2024 chassis shortage in Southern California, an importer had five 40HQ containers cleared customs on Friday. Terminal offered 4 calendar days free time.

Because weekend days counted against carrier free time and no truckers could secure tri-axle chassis until the following Wednesday, demurrage fees kicked into Tier 2 ($240/day) plus port terminal dwell surcharges ($100/day). Five boxes sat for 8 overdue days. Total bill was $13,600 before wheels touched the gate. Always negotiate 10 to 14 days detention on bookings before departure.

Standard Major Carrier US/EU Import Free Time Averages

Carrier Standard Dry Free Days Tier 1 (Day 1-5 past free) Tier 2 (Day 6+ past free)
Maersk Line 5 Calendar Days $150 / day $230 / day
MSC 5 Calendar Days $160 / day $240 / day
CMA CGM 4 - 5 Days $155 / day $235 / day
COSCO 6 Calendar Days $140 / day $210 / day