Detention accessorial explained
Time-based compensation when loading or unloading takes longer than the agreed free time.
Written and reviewed by LaneMath Editorial Team. Updated 2026-06-04. LaneMath pages are maintained as practical carrier education using public references, example-only math, and internal editorial review.
Carrier context
Detention is usually a clock problem. The useful question is when the free time starts, when it ends, and who accepts the facility timestamp if the shipper or receiver runs late.
When it applies
- The truck checks in on time but loading, unloading, or release takes longer than the written free-time allowance.
- The delay is caused by the facility, paperwork, product readiness, or receiver process rather than the carrier arriving late.
- The event is tied to the load and is outside the basic linehaul move.
- The broker, shipper, or receiver instructions create extra time, labor, mileage, or out-of-pocket cost.
- The rate confirmation or written approval gives a path for requesting the charge.
What to check on the rate confirmation
- Free time by stop, hourly amount, daily cap, and whether detention starts at appointment time or check-in time.
- Whether detention is paid automatically from timestamps or only after broker approval.
- Whether the charge is already included in the all-in rate.
- Free time, approval process, dollar amount, and documentation requirements.
- Who must approve the charge and whether a revised confirmation is required.
Common documentation
- Check-in and check-out timestamps from the gate, receiver, ELD note, email, or signed paperwork.
- Short notes showing the appointment time, actual arrival, dock assignment, and release time.
- Arrival and departure times when time is part of the request.
- Receipts, signed paperwork, gate records, emails, or text approvals.
- POD, BOL, revised confirmation, and invoice notes.
Negotiation notes
- Ask for the detention rule before dispatch if the facility is known for dwell.
- Send the first delay notice while the truck is still on site so the request is not a surprise after delivery.
- Ask before the cost is incurred when possible.
- Keep the request factual and tied to written load terms.
- Do not assume approval from a phone conversation; request written confirmation.
Example wording
Please confirm the free-time rule, detention start time, hourly amount, and whether this delay should be added on a revised rate confirmation.
References and methodology
- Accessorial documentation editorial methodology - LaneMath Editorial Desk. Used for documentation workflows and example scenarios, not for legal claims about collectability.
- Rate confirmation educational reference - LaneMath Editorial Desk. Used for document literacy. It is not legal advice and does not replace professional review.