Maersk has increased the demurrage-free period for containers handled at Durban Gateway Terminal in South Africa, giving customers additional time to collect containers before demurrage charges begin to apply.
The extension is expected to provide greater flexibility to importers, exporters and logistics operators handling cargo through the Durban gateway. Additional free time can help customers manage inland transportation, customs clearance and container collection more effectively.
Durban is a major container gateway for South Africa and serves as an important entry and exit point for cargo moving across the country’s supply chain. Efficient container evacuation is therefore critical for shippers and terminal operators.
The longer demurrage-free period could help customers dealing with delays in customs processing, trucking availability or inland cargo movements. It may also reduce the risk of additional container-related costs when operational delays occur.
Maersk regularly reviews local tariff structures and terminal-related conditions as part of its service arrangements. The latest change provides customers with more time to complete the required procedures and return containers within the applicable free period.
Importers and their logistics partners are advised to check the revised free-time terms, including the effective date and applicable container categories, when planning shipments through Durban Gateway Terminal.
The adjustment highlights the importance of demurrage policies in container logistics, particularly at major ports where cargo volumes, terminal operations and inland transport availability can influence container turnaround times.