Initiatives

Detention & Demurrage
Best Practices

OCEMA’s recommended best practice for detention and demurrage dispute resolution processes — providing clear, simple, and accessible frameworks for the entire supply chain.

OCEMA Best Practice

Clearer, Fairer D&D Processes

OCEMA has adopted a recommended Best Practice for Detention and Demurrage Dispute Resolution Processes. The Best Practice, developed by OCEMA’s Detention and Demurrage Process Committee, calls for clear, simple, and accessible dispute resolution processes for detention and demurrage charges.

The objective is to bring greater consistency, transparency, and fairness to D&D practices across all OCEMA member carriers and their counterparties — reducing friction and improving outcomes for shippers, motor carriers, and all stakeholders in the supply chain.

Important: Individual ocean carriers may deviate from the OCEMA Best Practice as they deem appropriate to meet operational or other business requirements. Please check with individual carriers regarding their current detention and demurrage dispute resolution policies.

OCEMA Documents
OCEMA Recommended Best Practice for Detention and Demurrage Dispute Resolution Processes
PDF Document
OCEMA Press Release — Best Practice for D&D Dispute Resolution Processes
PDF Document
Best Practice Principles
Clarity

Clear, unambiguous dispute resolution processes that stakeholders can understand and follow without confusion.

Simplicity

Simple procedures that minimize administrative burden while maintaining appropriate process controls.

Accessibility

Accessible channels and processes that allow shippers, motor carriers, and other parties to raise and resolve disputes efficiently.

Member Carrier Processes

Individual Member D&D Dispute Resolution

Each OCEMA member maintains its own detention and demurrage dispute resolution process. Links to individual carrier processes are provided below for reference.

Links provided for reference. Please contact individual carriers directly for current policies and processes.

Questions About D&D Practices?

For information about OCEMA’s Detention and Demurrage Best Practice or committee work, contact us directly.