Calculate detention time and charges for pickup and delivery stops
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Average detention rates range from $50 - $100/hour depending on region, carrier size, and shipper agreements.
Proper documentation is critical to getting paid for detention. Always record:
FMCSA tracks detention as a major issue affecting driver safety and HOS compliance.
Detention time is the time spent waiting at a shipper or receiver beyond the allotted free time. It occurs when loading or unloading takes longer than the agreed-upon window, keeping the driver and truck idle.
Standard free time is typically 2 hours. This is the industry-standard grace period given to shippers and receivers before detention charges begin. Some contracts may specify 1 or 3 hours depending on the agreement.
A fair detention rate is typically between $25 and $75 per hour, though rates can vary significantly. Factors include carrier size, region, freight type, and market conditions. Flatbed and specialized carriers often command higher rates of $85-$125 per hour.