Storage
Storage is a fee for keeping cargo or a container at a port, terminal, airport, or warehouse. It is usually charged per day after a free period.
In plain words
At a sea port, storage is charged by the terminal or port operator for the space the container uses. In Turkey, this charge is often called “ardiye”. It is separate from demurrage, which the shipping line charges for the use of its container. So a container that stays too long in the port can create both charges at the same time.
Airports, LCL warehouses (CFS), and bonded warehouses also charge storage. Rates often rise in steps the longer the cargo stays. Fast customs clearance and a planned pickup are the best ways to keep storage costs low.
Example from real shipping
A container stays 12 days at a terminal because the import documents are late. The terminal gives 5 free days and then charges storage for 7 days. The shipping line also charges demurrage for the days over its own free time. The importer pays both invoices.
Related terms
- DemurrageDemurrage is a fee the shipping line charges when a full container stays at the port longer than the free time. The fee is charged per day.
- DetentionDetention is a daily fee the shipping line charges when you keep its container outside the port or terminal longer than the free time.
- Bonded warehouse (Antrepo)A bonded warehouse is a warehouse under customs control. Imported goods can be stored there without paying import duties and taxes until they are released or sent abroad. In Turkey, it is called an “antrepo”.
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Request a QuoteThis glossary is general information, not legal or customs advice. Rules, fees, and practice can differ by carrier, port, and country.