As a truck driver, your time is your livelihood. Delays at shipping and receiving docks can cost you hours and those hours can add up fast. That’s where detention pay comes in. It’s a key component of protecting your time and income, yet many drivers aren’t fully clear on how it works or how to make sure they’re compensated fairly. In this blog, we’ll break down detention pay, how to advocate for yourself, and what to look for in a company that respects your time.
What Is Detention Pay?
Detention pay is compensation drivers receive when they are held up at a shipper or receiver beyond a set period, usually 2 hours, without being able to continue their route.
Here’s how it typically works:
- The first 1–2 hours of waiting are unpaid (called “free time”).
- After that, drivers are eligible to receive detention pay (often around $15 to $30/hour).
- This pay is meant to compensate for lost driving time, which can reduce your earning potential under mileage-based pay.
Detention time not only eats into your hours-of-service clock, but it also creates unnecessary stress and disrupts your route planning. That’s why understanding and tracking it is essential.
Why Detention Pay Matters More Than You Think
Your time is your paycheck. Every hour you’re not rolling is an hour you’re not earning. Over time, frequent detention delays can shave thousands off your annual income. And when you’re working under strict hours-of-service rules, these delays don’t just cost money, they can also limit your next-day productivity.
The Hidden Cost of Detention:
- Reduced miles = reduced pay (especially for mileage-based drivers)
- Increased stress and fatigue
- Delayed delivery appointments
- More time away from home
Detention pay is not just a perk, it’s a vital protection for your income.
How to Make Sure You Get Paid for Detention
Getting detention pay starts with clear communication and documentation. Here’s how to make sure you’re covered:
1. Know Your Company’s Policy
Not all carriers handle detention the same way. Some require:
- Timestamped arrival and departure logs
- Signatures from dock personnel
- Notification within a specific window
If you’re unsure, ask your dispatcher or fleet manager.
2. Keep Accurate Records
Use your ELD and/or personal logs to track:
- Arrival time
- Time unloaded
- Departure time
Back that up with photos or confirmation from dock staff when possible.
3. Speak Up Early
If a delay is dragging past the 2-hour mark, notify your dispatcher immediately. The sooner they know, the more likely it is they can get you detention pay authorized.
What to Look for in a Carrier That Respects Your Time
Not all trucking companies treat driver time with the respect it deserves. Look for companies that:
- Have transparent detention pay policies
- Actively work with shippers to reduce loading delays
- Pay detention automatically (no chasing it down)
- Support drivers with post-placement follow-up, like Drivers 1st does
Detention pay is just one piece of the puzzle. Companies that prioritize total driver satisfaction, like offering job alignment through tools like the Lifestyle Selector, tend to also respect your time, goals, and well-being.
Detention Pay FAQs
Q: When does detention pay start?
A: Typically after the first 2 hours of waiting at a dock.
Q: How much is detention pay?
A: It varies, but often ranges from $15 to $30 per hour.
Q: Do all trucking companies offer detention pay?
A: No. That’s why it’s critical to ask during the job search and prioritize companies that offer it.
Q: Can owner-operators get detention pay?
A: Yes, but the process may involve invoicing the shipper or factoring the delay into the rate agreement.
Final Thoughts: Protect Your Time, Protect Your Pay
Detention pay is your line of defense against wasted time on the road. Whether you’re an experienced driver or just getting started, knowing how to track delays and advocate for compensation is crucial.
Looking for a company that truly values your time?
👉 Search CDL Jobs Now
👉 Talk to a Driver Advocate
For more updates and insights into the trucking world, stay tuned to Drivers1st.com!