In October 2022 FMCSA started collecting data and researching driver detention time impact on safety and operations. FMCSA-Impact of Driver Detention Time on Safety and Operations
Detention is a common issue in the trucking industry, and it can affect the income and productivity of truck drivers. Detention refers to the amount of time that a driver is detained at a shipper or receiver beyond the agreed-upon appointment time. Detention pay is an accessorial fee that compensates drivers for the time and resources expended while waiting. In this article, I will explain what detention is, how it works, and how to avoid or reduce it. I will also provide some examples of detention rates and fees from different sources. Additionally, I will also cover two other types of charges that are related to detention: layover charge and TONU (Truck Not Used) charge.
What is Detention in Trucking?
The industry standard “free time” that a driver is expected to stay idly without extra payment is approximately two hours. After that, the carrier can charge a detention fee for the amount their driver is required to wait at a given location or facility. The detention fee is typically borne by the shipper, with whom the carrier has negotiated a detention rate and agreement. Detention fees can vary depending on the amount of time the driver is detained, the carrier’s policy, and the market conditions. Detention fees are different from demurrage fees, which are charges associated with long-distance freight shipping.
Why Does Detention Happen?
Detention can happen due to various reasons, such as poor scheduling or planning by the shipper or receiver, inefficient loading or unloading processes, lack of communication or coordination between the parties involved, unexpected delays or disruptions in the supply chain, or high demand or low capacity in certain markets or seasons. Detention can have negative impacts on the trucking industry, such as loss of income and productivity for drivers, increased operational costs and reduced profitability for carriers, lower customer satisfaction and service quality for shippers and receivers, higher risk of accidents and violations for drivers due to fatigue or stress, or reduced capacity and availability of drivers in the market.
How to Avoid or Reduce Detention?
Detention can be avoided or reduced by following some tips and tricks, such as:
- Plan ahead and confirm the appointment time and location with the shipper or receiver.
- Arrive on time and check in with the dock personnel.
- Keep track of the time spent waiting and document any delays or issues.
- Communicate with your dispatchers and notify them of any potential detention situations.
- Review the invoice for any errors or discrepancies.
How to Get Paid for Detention?
Getting paid for detention can be challenging, as some brokers may try to avoid paying a detention fee or delay the payment process. To ensure that you get paid for detention, you should follow some best practices, such as:
- Have a clear and written agreement with the broker about the detention policy and rate before accepting a load.
- Provide proof of detention, such as signed BOLs, GPS tracking records or emails.
- Write down your in and out times on the Bill of Lading (BOL) and have someone from the shipper or receiver sign it.
- Keep track of the time spent waiting and document any delays or issues.
- Submit your invoice and supporting documents to the broker as soon as possible.
- Follow up with the broker regularly until you receive your payment.
What are Layover Charge and TONU Charge?
Layover charge and TONU charge are two other types of accessorial fees that are related to detention. They are:
- Layover charge: A fee that compensates drivers for losing a day or more due to not being loaded or unloaded on time. The layover charge is usually calculated based on a daily rate, such as $150 or more per day.
- TONU charge: A fee that compensates drivers for losing a load due to cancellation by the broker or shipper. The TONU charge depends on agreement made with both sides.
