Can the Demurrage Period Be Extended After Expiration? A Comprehensive Analysis of Free Time and Demurrage Period in International Maritime Shipping

Can the Extended Free Period for International Shipping Be Applied for an Extension? A Detailed Explanation of Free Period and Free Storage Period

In the field of international logistics, container transportation is one of the core links, while the free period and free storage period are important concepts related to cost control and operational efficiency. The free period refers to the time frame during which the carrier allows the consignee to extract or return containers free of charge, usually ranging from 7 to 14 days; the free storage period, on the other hand, refers to the specific time allowed by ports or terminals for free storage of goods. These two periods aim to reduce the extra cost burden on customers and improve terminal operation efficiency.

Recently, due to the intensification of global supply chain tensions, many foreign trade enterprises have been facing issues such as delayed shipping schedules and insufficient capacity, making the practical application of the free period and free storage period more complex. For instance, at an industry seminar, a staff member from the Shanghai port mentioned This year, we received a large number of requests to extend the free period, mainly because the delay in ship berthing compressed the time for container retrieval. This phenomenon reflects the increasing demand for flexible adjustment of the free period under current market conditions.

So, when the free period has already expired, can it still be applied for an extension? The answer is yes, but it is not guaranteed that approval will always be granted. According to international shipping rules, carriers will consider specific circumstances, including but not limited to the following points

The specific reasons for the delay in retrieving containers;

Whether extending the period will significantly impact the carrier's costs;

The client’s past cooperation record and credit status.

Taking Maersk as an example, the company explicitly states on its official website If clients fail to return containers on time due to force majeure factors, please contact our customer service department promptly and provide relevant proof materials. We will handle cases on a case-by-case basis. Thus, even if the free period has expired, as long as the reasons are sufficient and procedures are complete, there is a good chance of obtaining an extension permit.

It is worth noting that even if an extension is successfully applied for, it does not mean unlimited resource occupation. Generally speaking, any period beyond the original free period still requires payment of corresponding detention fees or additional charges. Enterprises should plan ahead when dealing with such issues to avoid unnecessary economic losses due to hasty decisions.

With the development of digital technology, an increasing number of shipping companies are beginning to promote electronic bill of lading systems. This not only accelerates the flow of documents but also provides more convenience in handling similar issues. For example, CMA CGM’s CMACGME-Commerce platform allows users to submit various service applications online, including requests for extending the free period. Such convenient service models significantly shorten the approval process time, saving enterprises valuable time costs.

In summary, although the initial purpose of setting the free period and free storage period in international shipping was to simplify operations and reduce operating costs, they often encounter various external factors in practice. For foreign trade enterprises, understanding relevant policies and regulations, maintaining good communication channels, and reasonably utilizing existing tools are key to addressing these challenges. In the future, with the industry moving further toward intelligence, more innovative solutions are expected to emerge, helping all parties better balance interests and jointly promote the healthy development of global trade.