Detention Pay
Detention pay is the hourly compensation a carrier earns when a driver is held at a shipper or receiver beyond the agreed "free time" for loading or unloading.
What you actually need to know
Standard industry practice is 2 hours of free time at pickup and 2 hours at delivery. After that, detention starts accruing — typically $50–$100 per hour, depending on broker, lane, and freight type.
Detention isn't automatic. To collect, you have to:
- Confirm in writing before you accept the load that detention pays after 2 hours (or whatever the agreed free time is) and at what rate.
- Document arrival and departure times at both pickup and delivery — the BOL signature time, gate times, and any text/email exchange with dispatch.
- Submit a detention claim to the broker within whatever window the rate confirmation specifies (usually 7–30 days).
Brokers will often push back on detention claims, especially when the receiver disputes the timing. Strong documentation wins these disputes. Weak documentation loses them.
Common mistakes / confusions
- Detention rates vary widely. Some brokers pay $30/hour; some pay $100/hour; some won't pay it at all unless you fight. Negotiate before accepting the load.
- Some shippers are notorious for slow loading. Other carriers can tell you which are which — ask before taking a load to a new facility.
- Detention is taxable income, but it's also a real cost recovery. Don't refuse it because of taxes — you're being compensated for time you would otherwise spend earning nothing.
Related terms
Where to go next
TruckStart is an educational tool, not a law firm, accounting firm, insurance agency, freight broker, or filing service. Always verify current requirements directly with FMCSA, your state, the IRS, and qualified professionals before making business decisions.