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Why Carriers Bill Shippers for Truckload Detention

Joseph McDevitt • Apr 05, 2023

Learn about truckload detention: what it is and why carriers bill shippers for it. Find out the average detention pay for Truck Drivers.

Truckload detention is a term used in the trucking industry to refer to the time a driver spends waiting at a shipper or receiver's facility beyond the scheduled pickup or delivery time. This can be caused by various factors, including delays in loading or unloading, bill of lading paperwork issues, or congestion at the facility. When a driver experiences detention time, it can disrupt their schedule and cause delays in subsequent deliveries, which can have a significant impact on their earnings.

To compensate for the lost time and income, carriers often bill shippers for detention pay. Detention pay is a fee charged by the carrier to the shipper for the time a driver spends waiting at their facility. The fee is usually calculated based on an hourly rate and starts after a predetermined amount of time, usually two hours, has passed. The exact amount of detention pay can vary depending on the carrier's policies and the specific situation, but the average detention pay for truck drivers is around $50-$60 per hour. Specialty equipment types, such as Curtainside Trailers will charge a premium that can be significantly higher.

Carriers bill shippers for detention pay because it is a way to incentivize shippers to be more efficient with their loading and unloading processes. When a shipper knows that they will be charged for detention time, they are more likely to prioritize timely loading and unloading to avoid additional fees. Additionally, carriers may use detention pay as a bargaining tool to negotiate better rates with shippers. By including detention pay in their rate negotiations, carriers can ensure that they are compensated for the additional time and expenses incurred due to inefficient loading and unloading practices. Carriers will naturally prefer working with shippers that are organized, respectful, and efficient with their loading & unloading.

What can a shipper do to avoid Truckload Detention Fees?

Communicate effectively:

Shippers should clearly communicate with their carriers and establish a mutually agreed-upon schedule for loading and unloading. By doing so, both parties are aware of what is expected of them, and the likelihood of delays can be minimized.
Plan ahead:

Shippers should plan their shipments in advance and have the necessary resources and personnel available to load and unload the trucks within the agreed-upon timeframe. They should also schedule pickups and deliveries at times when traffic is low to avoid congestion and delays.
Streamline the loading/unloading process:

Shippers should strive to make the loading and unloading process as efficient as possible. They can do this by having the cargo ready and accessible when the truck arrives, using proper equipment to load and unload, and organizing the cargo in a way that facilitates quick and easy loading and unloading.
Offer incentives:

Shippers can offer incentives to carriers for quick turnarounds or for completing their job within the agreed-upon timeframe. This can motivate carriers to work more efficiently and help shippers avoid detention fees.
Use technology:

Shippers can use technology to monitor their shipments in real-time, track the progress of their trucks, and receive alerts if any issues arise. This can help them proactively address any delays and avoid detention fees.

In conclusion, truckload detention time can have a significant impact on a driver's schedule and earnings. To compensate for this lost time, carriers often bill shippers for detention pay, which is a fee charged for the time a driver spends waiting at a shipper or receiver's facility beyond the scheduled pickup or delivery time. Detention pay typically starts after a predetermined amount of time, usually two hours, and is calculated based on an hourly rate. The average detention pay for truck drivers is around $50-$60 per hour, but can get as high as $150/hr for specialty equipment. By charging shippers for detention pay, carriers incentivize shippers to be more efficient with their loading and unloading processes, and ensure that they are compensated for the additional time and expenses incurred due to delays.

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