Free Time
Category: Port Charges
Definition (plain English)
The allowed no-charge period for container or cargo use at a terminal, depot, or outside the terminal before demurrage or detention starts.
Why it matters commercially
Free time is a practical risk buffer for customs review, port congestion, warehouse slots, and inland delivery planning.
Example
The importer accepted a slightly higher freight quote because it included seven destination free days instead of three during a peak-season lane.
Common mistake
Not checking whether free time is calendar days or working days, where the clock starts, the last free day, and whether demurrage and detention free time are separate.
Use this in CommerceKit
Landed Cost
Use tool →Freight Cost Per Unit Calculator
Use tool →