Detention
Detention is a fee charged when a container or trailer is kept outside the terminal, or a truck waits at a facility, beyond the allowed free time.
Why it matters for ecommerce brands
Slow unloading at your warehouse can trigger detention on both containers and trucks.
Common questions
- How do I avoid container detention charges?
- Unload containers quickly and return empties promptly, confirming the return location with the carrier before pickup. Negotiating extra free time and coordinating dock appointments with your drayage carrier also helps.
Cite this entry
"Detention." Fulfillment Lexicon, last reviewed October 16, 2026. https://fulfillment.wiki/glossary/detention/