Guide · Updated October 2026
Demurrage and Port Storage: What They Are and How to Avoid Them
Every port gives a vehicle a set number of free days. After that, storage is charged per day, and a container that is kept too long also runs up demurrage and detention charges from the shipping line. Free time at the main ports we use is typically 5 to 10 days. The way to avoid charges is to have your documents ready, clear customs before the ship arrives, and collect promptly.
Free time
Typically 5–10 days at the port
Storage
Charged per vehicle per day after free time
Demurrage
A container kept at the port too long
Detention
A container kept outside the port too long
Risk
Vehicles stored after free time are at the owner's risk
Avoid it
Documents ready, clear early, collect promptly
What is the difference between storage, demurrage and detention?
- Port storage
- Charged by the terminal for each day a vehicle stays after its free days
- Demurrage
- Charged by the shipping line when a full container stays in the port beyond its free days
- Detention
- Charged by the shipping line when a container is kept outside the port, for example while being unloaded at your address, beyond the agreed days
How many free days do ports give?
Examples from the terminals and lines we use, as published in October 2026:
- Southampton, export
- 10 free days before sailing; after that the vehicle is stored at the shipper's risk
- Southampton, import
- 5 free days; then storage charged per day, from about £16 for a car and more for larger vehicles
- Antwerp, import
- 10 free days; then €4 per car per day, plus a late-collection fee
- Rolltrailer and mafi cargo
- Can be charged by the day from the first day, for example US$95 per day
Free days and rates are set by each terminal and line and change. The exact free time for your shipment is on the arrival notice.
How do I avoid storage charges?
- Book the vehicle in close to the sailing date, not weeks early
- Have the customs documents ready before the ship arrives, including any permits the destination needs
- Pay destination charges when the arrival notice comes
- Arrange collection or onward transport for the day the vehicle is released
- For a container, agree the unloading date with the haulier in advance
- Tell us early if you will be away when the ship arrives
What if customs holds the vehicle?
Storage keeps running during a customs inspection or a biosecurity check, and those days are not usually free. Australia, New Zealand and the USA inspect many vehicles; a clean vehicle and complete paperwork are the best protection.
Frequently asked questions
What is demurrage in shipping?
A daily charge from the shipping line when a full container stays in the port beyond its free days. For vehicles shipped by RORO, the equivalent is port storage.
How many free days does a car get at the port?
Typically 5 to 10 days at the ports we use, depending on the terminal and whether it is an export or import. Your arrival notice shows the exact free time.
Who pays port storage?
The owner or consignee of the vehicle, before it is released.
Is my vehicle insured while in storage?
Vehicles stored after free time are usually at the owner's risk. Marine insurance, if taken, has its own terms for storage.
How can I avoid demurrage?
Have documents ready, clear customs early, pay the destination charges promptly and arrange collection for the day of release.
Official sources
This guide summarises the rules as published in October 2026. Rules change; we confirm what applies to your vehicle when we quote.
Related routes and guides
Member of
IVSS is a member of BIFA, the British International Freight Association, and FIATA, the international federation of freight forwarders.
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