DEMURRAGE CHARGE, DETENTION AND PORT CHARGES NIGERIA

demurrage chargeDemurrage charge and detention are two terms that one cannot help but mention in the movement of goods between countries. What really do the terms demurrage and detention mean? Who pays for demurrage and detention? Again, what are other port charges? Well, this article will define how demurrage, detention, and other port charges work in international trade. Furthermore, the article will prepare importers and exporters on what to do to avoid pleasant surprises down the trade line.

Read Also: FORM M NIGERIA: HOW TO PROCESS AND OBTAIN IT

INTERNATIONAL TRADE AND WHO PAYS WHAT

The question of who pays what in international trade is a function of the trade rout followed. What do I mean by trade rout? The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) is the body responsible for assigning meanings to international trade terms. Thus, the terms have international application. Moreover, the exact meaning and application may vary slightly among countries. These trade terms therefore, become commercial paths with clearly defined roles for trade parties.

The rout followed shows who takes cargo ownership at every point in the movement goods. If the term is FOB for instance, it means that as soon as the cargo is loaded on-board at the origin, the shipper is free from all risks.

For more detail about trade terms read also: INCOTERMS: UNDERSTANDING SHIPPING TERMS IN NIGERIA

In the course of planning, it’s easy to forget demurrage, detention and port charges.

WHAT ARE DEMURRAGE CHARGE AND DETENTION CHARGES?

The terms demurrage and detention are often used interchangeably and somewhat rightly. In most cases, the detention charge is buried in the demurrage charge. However, there is difference between demurrage and detention charges. The following definitions will indicate this difference.

IMPORTING OR EXPORTING TO NIGERIA?
-PRICE VERIFICATION SYSTEM (PVS)
-SON PC/SONCAP PROCESSING
-FORM M AND PAAR PROCESSING
-INVOICE, CCVO, PACKING LIST, AND OTHER DOCS
-PICKUP AND SHIPPING
-SEAFRIEGHT CLEARANCE AND DELIVERY TO FINAL DESTINATION
-AIR CARGO CLEARANCE AND DELIVERY
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Demurrage charge:

Demurrage is charge imposed by shipping company on the consignee/consignor for failure to take delivery and move container out of port terminal at expiration of free time. The shipping company usually have a time period allowed for the importer to pick the container, unload and return to the bay. This time period is what is called the shipping line free days. In most cases, the free days are indicated on the reverse side of the bill of lading document. The importer is expected to clear the cargo, transport goods to his warehouse, and return the container within free days. Beyond the free days, the importer is made to pay demurrage.

Detention:

Detention is charges imposed by shipping line on the importer for failure to return container after free days. Unlike demurrage detention means that container is already out of port terminal, but could not be returned to the bay within free days.

PORT CHARGES

Port charges are those charges levied by the ports on the container. This charges includes the following:

  • Shifting charge
  • Early arrival or late charge
  • Terminal Handling Charge (THC)
  • Port storage charge
  • Amendment or cancellation charge
  • Stuffing and unstuffing charge
  • Lifting charges, etc.

In my next article, I will discuss detail on port charges.

Read Also: TERMINAL HANDLING CHARGES, SHIPPING COMPANY CHARGES

Conclusion:

Demurrage and detention can be seen as one, and rightly so. However, for purposes of understanding and technicality, both terms are distinguishable. To avoid paying demurrages, importers must do early clearance before cargo arrival. Clearance can begin as soon as manifest is approved. Additionally, terms used in freight forwarding have local applications. Consequently, this article has application first in Nigeria. Thanks for reading this article.

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