Free Time
When importing goods there is a period known as free time, usually three working days, from customs clearance having been confirmed.
This is the allowed period for you to instruct your shipping agent to arrange forwarding the goods to your company. If this is not done within that period the goods will be put into storage. That describes demurrage.
The term demurrage is derived from the Latin “mora” which means delay.
Causing Demurrage
Failing to accept documents (and therefore gaining access to the original bill of lading) or to remit payment for clearance charges and / or import duty in good time are the most common causes of delay.
If the business does not have an open account with its shipping / import agent it will be important to ensure that funds are remitted for these charges as soon as their values are advised.
Tipping Time
In the case of container deliveries, a demurrage charge can also arise at your premises if there are delays in unloading.
For example if three hours are specified as the allowable time to unload the container when presented at your premises, an hourly charge will apply for the excess time taken.
Customs Inspection
If customs clearance is responsible for delays, demurrage charges do not arise as long as the three day rule is observed following clearance.