Detention time is one of the most frustrating and costly problems in the trucking industry. Every hour you spend waiting at a shipper or receiver is an hour you are not moving freight and not earning money. Here is how to handle detention time professionally and make sure you get paid what you deserve. What is Detention Time — Detention time occurs when a shipper or receiver keeps you waiting beyond the agreed upon free time before loading or unloading your trailer. Standard industry practice allows two free hours before detention charges begin. Know Your Rate — Before accepting any load confirm the detention rate in your rate confirmation. Standard detention rates range from $25 to $75 per hour depending on the broker and shipper. Document Everything — The moment you arrive at a shipper or receiver note your arrival time and get it documented on your paperwork. If possible get a timestamp from the facility. Communicate With Your Dispatcher Immediately — As soon as detention time begins notify your dispatcher. They will contact the broker and begin the detention billing process on your behalf. Send a Written Request — Follow up every detention claim in writing via email with your arrival time, free time expiration, and the total detention hours claimed. Be Professional — Detention disputes are common. Stay calm, professional, and document everything. Aggressive behavior only makes resolution harder. At BlackCheetah LLC we handle all detention billing and disputes on behalf of our clients so you get paid for every hour you wait without having to fight brokers yourself. Call 347-832-8251 today.
