Free Time Calculator

Demurrage & Detention Calculator

How much could holding a container past free time cost you? Estimate the exposure in seconds, then see how pre-pull and drop programs eliminate it.

Charge typeNumber of containersFree time (days)Typical planning range is 3 to 5 port daysDays held or expected

Estimated exposure range. Tariff rates vary by carrier and terminal.

Your exposure

Enter the free time and the days you expect to hold the container, then hit Calculate Exposure.

General planning ranges only. Carrier and terminal tariffs differ and often escalate by day band.

Know the Clock Before It Starts

Free time is the number of days a container can sit at the terminal (demurrage) or off the port on a chassis (detention and per diem) before daily charges start. Clocks differ by carrier, terminal and contract, and they do not pause for congestion.

How importers avoid these charges

Pre-pull the container to a drayage yard before free time expires.
Use drop programs so the driver is not waiting on live unloads.
Confirm appointment availability at the terminal before vessel arrival.
Match pickup dates to real warehouse receiving capacity.