(a) Carrier demurrage rules usually allow for a “free time” for loading or unloading cars or for any other purpose, and impose charges for cars held beyond this period. If a contractor detains railroad cars beyond the “free time,” the contractor has to pay the carrier's published tariff charges for demurrage.
(b) Detention results when a shipper or consignee holds motor carrier equipment beyond a reasonable period for loading, unloading, forwarding directions, or any other reason. Detention rules and charges are not uniform; they are published in individual carrier or agency tenders.
