Practical 2026 guide to avoiding demurrage and detention charges on international vehicle shipments — how the charges work and the proven prevention checklist.
Demurrage is the daily charge by the port terminal when your container or vehicle stays at the port past the free-time period. Detention is the daily charge by the shipping line when their container stays off-terminal past the agreed free period. Both can apply to the same shipment but have different rates and clocks.
Typically 5 days for containerised cargo and 3 days for RORO vehicles at Felixstowe, Southampton, London Gateway and Tilbury. After free time, daily rates start at £75–£125 and escalate to £175–£275 after 10 days. Some terminals offer free-time extensions on request for first-time delays.
You, the consignee, ultimately pay. The port invoices the shipping line, who invoice your customs broker, who passes the cost to you. Your broker will not release the vehicle until demurrage is paid in full. Pre-fund your account if a delay is possible.
Standard marine cargo insurance does not cover demurrage. Specialist delay insurance is available for commercial freight but uncommon for private vehicle imports. The practical solution is prevention: full documentation pack ready 10+ days before vessel arrival, funds pre-positioned, broker engaged.
Missing or late customs documentation, accounting for around 55% of demurrage cases. The most common specifics are original Bill of Lading not yet surrendered, missing original V5C/title, EORI number not yet registered, or HMRC ToR1 reference number not yet issued. Verify every document with your broker 14 days before arrival.
Get a free quote · WhatsApp +44 7376 584421 · info@theshipcars.co.uk