Heavy cargo shipping: Free time and detention charges
Free time and detention charges involves shipping mode, lashing and port conditions that need early confirmation.

Key points
- Containers usually get 7 to 14 days of free time after arrival, with daily detention charges beyond that.
- Combine the shipping plan with destination port capability and inland roads; ocean freight alone understates cost.
- This compiles public rules for pre-shipment checks; applicable categories, inspection bodies and documents are confirmed by the destination authority and the importer.
Containers usually get 7 to 14 days of free time after arrival, with daily detention charges beyond that. Where West and East African ports congest, negotiate 21 days and agree in the contract who bears costs caused by clearance delays.
Combine the shipping plan with destination port capability and inland roads; ocean freight alone understates cost.
This compiles public rules for pre-shipment checks; applicable categories, inspection bodies and documents are confirmed by the destination authority and the importer.
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