Demurrage vs detention in Kenya explained
Two words cause more unexpected cost in importing than almost any others: demurrage and detention. They sound similar and are easy to confuse, but they are different charges with different clocks. Knowing which is which helps you plan and keep costs down.
What demurrage is
Demurrage is charged when your cargo stays at the port or Container Freight Station longer than the free period allowed for clearance. In plain terms, it is the cost of a container overstaying while it waits to be cleared and collected. We look at this side of storage in CFS storage costs and how to avoid demurrage.
What detention is
Detention is charged once you have taken the container away but keep it too long before returning the empty to the shipping line. Where demurrage is about cargo sitting at the facility, detention is about the empty container being held out beyond its agreed free time. Planning the empty return is part of managing this, as we cover in empty container returns explained.
The simplest way to remember the difference
Demurrage is the charge before you collect, while the container is still at the port or CFS. Detention is the charge after you collect, when you have the container but have not yet returned the empty. Both are set by the shipping line and the facility, and the free periods vary by line, container type and whether cargo is domestic or transit, so confirm the exact figures with your shipping line or clearing agent.
Where transport makes the difference
Most demurrage and detention comes down to timing, and that is where a dependable transporter helps. Collecting promptly once a container is released reduces the risk of demurrage; returning the empty without delay reduces the risk of detention. Booking transport early, with documents ready, is the single best habit, as we explain in how to avoid delays.
Plan the whole cycle, not just the delivery
The importers who avoid these charges treat the movement as a full cycle: release, collection, delivery and empty return, all planned together. Tell us your release timing and whether the empty needs to go back, and we will plan the collection and return to keep the clock on your side.
This article is general information, not customs, legal or financial advice. Demurrage and detention terms are set by your shipping line and facility, so confirm the free periods and charges that apply to your shipment.
Want your cargo collected and returned on time? Get a quote or contact us and we will plan around your release. Built To Deliver.
