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Operations

Live Load / Live Unload

Waiting at a facility while your trailer is loaded or unloaded.

Definition

Live loading (or live unloading) means the driver waits at the shipper or receiver while the trailer is loaded or unloaded. This can take anywhere from 1 hour to 6+ hours depending on the facility, cargo type, and how busy the dock is. Live loads reduce a driver's productive driving time and can significantly impact earnings if detention pay isn't available.

Why it matters to you

Live loading puts your day in someone else's hands. You wait while the trailer is loaded or unloaded, and the clock keeps running whether the dock does or not. Find out the carrier's detention policy before taking an account known for live loads, and get every arrival timestamped. Some freight — produce and grocery in particular — is almost entirely live and priced accordingly.

FAQ

What does Live Load / Live Unload mean?

Waiting at a facility while your trailer is loaded or unloaded.

Why does Live Load / Live Unload matter to a driver?

Live loading puts your day in someone else's hands. You wait while the trailer is loaded or unloaded, and the clock keeps running whether the dock does or not. Find out the carrier's detention policy before taking an account known for live loads, and get every arrival timestamped. Some freight — produce and grocery in particular — is almost entirely live and priced accordingly.

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