Demurrage and port storage charges explained

Demurrage and storage charges are fees that accrue when a vehicle or container stays at the destination port longer than the free period allowed. They are one of the most common ways an importer's costs balloon after the car has already arrived, often through avoidable delay.

Storage charges are levied by the port or terminal for occupying space, while demurrage typically relates to keeping shipping line equipment such as a container beyond the agreed free days. Both rise daily, so a clearance held up for a week or two can add a serious unexpected sum.

The usual causes are slow clearance: missing or incorrect documents, unpaid duty, or simply not having a clearing agent ready when the ship arrives. Because the free period is short, preparation before arrival is what saves money, not action afterwards.

To avoid these charges, have your documents complete and correct, your duty funds ready, and a clearing agent briefed before the vessel docks. Knowing your port's free-time allowance and daily rates lets you plan clearance to finish inside the window.

ASTONISHING CARS provides complete, correct export documents and clear arrival information so your agent can clear the car promptly, helping you avoid demurrage and storage charges eating into the savings on the car itself.