Demurrage Charges: What They Are and How to Minimize Cost

Demurrage Charges apply when a container stays at the port beyond the allowed free time before customs clearance. These charges are imposed by shipping lines to encourage swift container movement and avoid congestion. To minimize Demurrage Charges, businesses should: Ensure all documentation is ready before shipment arrival Work with experienced customs brokers for faster clearance Monitor container tracking to plan for timely pickup Negotiate better free time terms with shipping companies Proper planning and proactive logistics management can significantly reduce Demurrage Charges, helping businesses maintain cost efficiency in global trade.