Last Free Day

What Is the Last Free Day (LFD)?

The last free day (LFD) is the final day a shipper or consignee can pick up an import container from the terminal (or return an empty container) before demurrage or detention charges begin accruing.

How Does the Last Free Day Work?

The LFD is calculated by counting the free time allowance (typically a set number of calendar days) from the date a container is discharged from the vessel or made available for pickup. If the container isn't picked up, or returned empty, by the LFD, per diem charges begin accumulating daily until it is.

Why the Last Free Day Matters

Missing the LFD, even by one day, triggers charges that can add up quickly, especially across many containers or during port congestion when drayage and chassis availability make timely pickup harder. Tracking LFDs across all active shipments is one of the most direct ways to avoid avoidable freight costs.