Detention Pay
Compensation for time spent waiting at a shipper or receiver beyond a free period.
Definition
Detention pay compensates drivers for excessive wait times at shipping or receiving facilities. Most carriers allow 1-2 hours of free time, after which detention pay kicks in, typically $25-$75 per hour. Not all carriers pay detention, and rates vary widely. This is a significant factor in overall compensation — drivers who experience frequent detention without pay effectively earn less per hour worked.
Why it matters to you
Detention is where hours disappear without money attached. Whether you are paid for it depends entirely on the carrier's policy and the customer's contract, so ask before you sign, not at the dock. Record your arrival and departure through the ELD and any check-in app; a claim without a timestamp usually fails. On accounts with chronic waiting, detention policy is worth more than a few cents per mile.
FAQ
What does Detention Pay mean?
Compensation for time spent waiting at a shipper or receiver beyond a free period.
Why does Detention Pay matter to a driver?
Detention is where hours disappear without money attached. Whether you are paid for it depends entirely on the carrier's policy and the customer's contract, so ask before you sign, not at the dock. Record your arrival and departure through the ELD and any check-in app; a claim without a timestamp usually fails. On accounts with chronic waiting, detention policy is worth more than a few cents per mile.
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