Guineabissau Importers Face Rising Demurrage and Detention Fees

Published: 09/28/2025
Guinea-Bissau Import Guide Detention and Demurrage
This article provides a detailed guide to the import process in Guinea-Bissau, focusing on detention and demurrage fees. It explains how these fees are calculated and offers practical advice on how to avoid them. By preparing customs clearance documents in advance, closely monitoring cargo movement, and strategically planning pickup times, importers can effectively reduce costs and ensure smooth business operations. The guide aims to help businesses navigate the import procedures and minimize unexpected expenses related to container storage and port delays in Guinea-Bissau.
Guineabissau Importers Face Rising Demurrage and Detention Fees

Imagine your cargo finally arriving in Guinea-Bissau after a long journey, only to incur substantial demurrage and detention fees due to unfamiliarity with local import procedures. This scenario can quickly become a logistical nightmare. To prevent such situations, this article provides a comprehensive guide to Guinea-Bissau's import process, fee structures, and strategies for maximizing free periods.

Overview of Guinea-Bissau's Import Process

Before examining demurrage and detention fees, it's essential to understand the standard import procedure in Guinea-Bissau. While specific requirements may vary by cargo type and trade terms, the process typically involves these key steps:

  1. Arrival Notification: The carrier (such as Maersk) informs the consignee when cargo arrives at Bissau Port.
  2. Customs Preparation: The consignee prepares all necessary clearance documents including bills of lading, commercial invoices, and packing lists.
  3. Customs Declaration: Submission of declarations to Guinea-Bissau customs with payment of applicable duties and taxes.
  4. Cargo Inspection: Customs may physically inspect shipments to verify declaration accuracy.
  5. Cargo Release: After completing clearance procedures, the consignee can collect goods from the port using the bill of lading.

Understanding Demurrage Charges

Demurrage refers to fees charged by carriers when cargo remains at port beyond the free storage period. These charges incentivize prompt collection to maintain port efficiency. Key details about Guinea-Bissau's demurrage policy:

Free Periods by Cargo Type:

  • Dry containers: 10 days
  • Reefer containers: 1 day
  • Dangerous cargo: 1 day

Note: The discharge day doesn't count toward the free period.

Fee Structure (Beyond Free Period):

Container Type 20' Container 40' Container
Dry containers 8,750 XOF 17,500 XOF
Reefer containers 41,250 XOF 82,500 XOF

Important: Storage fees must be paid directly to Bissau Port.

Understanding Detention Charges

Detention fees apply when consignees retain containers beyond the free usage period. These charges encourage timely container returns to maintain equipment circulation. Key details about Guinea-Bissau's detention policy:

Free Periods by Container Type:

  • Dry containers: 5 days
  • Reefer containers: 10 days

Note: The discharge day doesn't count toward the free period.

Fee Structure (Beyond Free Period):

Container Type 20' Container 40' Container
Dry containers 3,500 XOF 7,000 XOF
Reefer containers 7,000 XOF 10,000 XOF

Strategies to Avoid Unnecessary Fees

Implementing these practical measures can help minimize or eliminate demurrage and detention charges:

  1. Pre-clearance preparation: Complete all documentation before cargo arrival to expedite customs processing.
  2. Real-time tracking: Monitor shipment progress closely and initiate clearance immediately upon arrival.
  3. Strategic scheduling: Plan collections within free periods and negotiate extensions when necessary.
  4. Prompt container returns: Return empty containers to designated locations within the free period.
  5. Regulatory awareness: Understand special customs regulations, including holiday schedules.
  6. Professional partnerships: Engage experienced freight forwarders to navigate complex procedures.
  7. Reefer considerations: For refrigerated containers, schedule morning discharges to maximize the 1-day free period.
  8. Calendar day accounting: Since July 1, 2016, fees accrue daily including weekends and holidays.

Case Study: Successful Fee Avoidance

A Chinese apparel exporter shipping to Guinea-Bissau implemented these best practices:

  • Prepared all documents before cargo arrival
  • Coordinated with local customs in advance
  • Completed clearance within 4 days of June 25 arrival
  • Collected goods by July 5 (within 10-day free period)
  • Returned empty containers by July 1 (within 5-day free period)

This proactive approach avoided all demurrage and detention fees.

Additional Import Considerations

Beyond fee management, importers should note these critical factors:

  • Document accuracy: Ensure all paperwork (including certificates of origin) is complete and correct.
  • Tariff calculations: Pre-calculate applicable duties and taxes to prevent clearance delays.
  • Licensing requirements: Verify whether specific goods require import licenses.
  • Inspection mandates: Confirm whether certain products require pre-shipment inspections.
  • Payment methods: Consider secure options like letters of credit to mitigate transaction risks.
  • Language considerations: Engage Portuguese-speaking representatives as needed.

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