postsupplyGlossary

Detention (per diem)

ES · EN

The charge for keeping the carrier's container outside the terminal longer than the free time allowed, until the empty container is returned.

Demurrage is inside the port, detention is outside: once you pick up the container, a clock starts until you return the empty. Per diem is the daily rate. Together with demurrage, these two charges are the quiet tax of slow warehouses and missing appointments.

Source: U.S. Federal Maritime Commission