What is detention?

Detention is the charge applicable, after the free time expires, for the use of the carrier’s full container inside the marine terminal or container yard. This charge can also apply while the container is undergoing customs inspections, or while the cargo inside the container is being reworked for safety reasons.

What is demurrage?

Demurrage is the charge applicable, after the free time expires, inside the terminal for the use of the land.

In case of a demurrage dispute, email eduardo.alvarez@msc.com (email subject: Demurrage + Invoice Number + BL), describing the reasons for your dispute.

What are storage charges?

A storage charge is applicable, after the free time expires, for containers left inside the port terminal (for the use of the land).

What is VGM?

Verified Gross Mass or VGM refers to the exact, verified weight of a packed container. For safety reasons, vessel operators can only load a container if its weight has been verified.

How can I submit my VGM instructions?

EDI (directly from the terminal to responsible parties)

Admin Fees and Costs 

• As from July 1st, 2016, all containers must be weighed at the terminal prior to being loaded.
• Weigh tolerance +/- 3%
• The shipper is fully responsible to pay all charges at the terminal regarding VGM processes. If these costs are not paid to the terminal prior to the vessel`s arrival, the container will not be loaded.

• Motor vehicles more than 10 years old
• Refurbished and right-hand drive vehicles used to transport passengers and cargo
• Automatic weapons
• Paralysing substances
• CFC-containing aerosols
• Halons
• Air conditioning units for vehicles containing ozone-depleting substances (ODS)
• Domestic air conditioners and other devices containing ODS such as refrigerators, freezers, dehumidifiers, heat pumps, water coolers and ice-making machines
• Insulation panels, pipe covers and prepolymers the manufacturing of which entailed the use of ODS
• Consignments of soil
• Plants with soil residues
• Straw
• Humus and plant decomposition materials 

 
Export

• Illegal drugs
• Plants and plant products
• Milk and milk products
• Animals and pets - unless permitted
• Weapons
• Explosives and ammunition
• Knives and deadly weapons
• Counterfeit money and goods
• Pornographic material