Have the actual Rate Con?
Upload it and check the money terms in the document itself.
Detention starts with the Rate Con
Check whether the document states free time, an hourly rate, a maximum amount, and whether detention applies at pickup, delivery, or both. Do not substitute an “industry standard” for what the load document actually says.
Notice can decide whether the claim survives
Some Rate Cons require the carrier to notify dispatch or the broker before free time expires. If the document has a notice rule, make it an operational deadline — not something discovered after delivery.
Document arrival and departure
Useful evidence can include gate tickets, ELD or GPS timestamps, check-in messages, and signed arrival/departure times on the BOL or POD. Follow the exact proof requirements written in the document.
Calculate billable time
The basic calculation is total facility time minus the stated free-time allowance, multiplied by the approved hourly rate. Billing increments or caps can change the number, so the Rate Con still controls the calculation.
Detention also affects the rest of the load
Waiting can consume available work time and make the next appointment harder to hit. FMCSA continues to study detention because of its operational and safety effects on commercial drivers.
Frequently asked questions
How many free hours are allowed before detention?
Use the free-time allowance stated in your Rate Con or written load instructions. Do not assume every broker uses the same rule.
What proof should I keep for detention?
Keep the proof your document requires. Common evidence includes arrival/departure timestamps, facility records, BOL/POD times, tracking and written broker notifications.
How do I calculate detention pay?
Subtract agreed free time from total wait time, then multiply billable time by the approved detention rate, subject to any billing increment or cap.
Have the actual Rate Con?
Upload it and check the money terms in the document itself.