How detention pay is calculated
Billable hours (each stop) = time at stop − free time, rounded down to the billing increment Detention pay = billable hours × hourly rate Accessorials = detention + layover days × rate + extra stops × fee + TONU + lumper Rate per mile with extras = (linehaul + accessorials) ÷ loaded miles
Typical accessorial rates
| Charge | When it applies | Common range |
|---|---|---|
| Detention | Waiting after free time (often 2 hours) | $25–$75 per hour |
| Layover | Truck held a day or more without driving | $150–$300 per day |
| Stop-off | Each extra pickup or drop | $50–$150 per stop |
| TONU | Load cancelled after dispatch | $150–$250 flat |
| Lumper | Paid for unloading | Reimbursed with receipt |
Ranges are typical starting points; your rate confirmation decides what you get paid. More detail in Trucking accessorial charges: detention, layover, TONU and more.
Get detention paid, not disputed
- Get the detention rate, free time and billing increment written on the rate confirmation.
- Message the broker before free time runs out, and save the message.
- Record arrival and departure times on the BOL and have them signed; your ELD log backs them up.
- Invoice accessorials with the load paperwork. Use “Copy results” above for the line items.
Common questions
How is detention pay calculated?
Detention starts when the free time at a stop runs out, usually two hours after your appointment or arrival. Billable hours = time at the stop minus free time, rounded to the billing increment in your rate confirmation, then multiplied by the hourly detention rate.
What is a typical detention rate?
Many brokers pay around $25 to $75 an hour after two hours of free time, and some cap the daily total. Whatever the number, get it written on the rate confirmation before you take the load.
What is layover pay in trucking?
Layover pays you for a day the truck is held without driving, for example when a load isn't ready or a receiver can't take it until the next day. Owner-operators often bill $150 to $300 per day.
What is a stop-off fee?
A stop-off charge pays for each extra pickup or delivery beyond the first on a load, commonly $50 to $150 per stop.
What is TONU?
Truck ordered, not used: a flat fee paid to the carrier when a load is cancelled after the truck was dispatched, often $150 to $250.
How do I make sure I get paid for detention?
Notify the broker before free time runs out, record in and out times on the bill of lading or with your ELD, get the receiver to sign, and invoice detention with the load paperwork rather than later.