Detention accessorial explained
Time-based compensation when loading or unloading takes longer than the agreed free time.
Written and reviewed by LaneMath Editorial Team, with carrier workflow review from Dale Morrow where practical dispatch, paperwork, or lane-planning context is involved. Updated 2026-06-04. LaneMath pages use public references, example-only math, and conservative 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 here for: Detention, lumper, layover, TONU, revised confirmation, and post-delivery document workflow examples.Used for documentation workflows and example scenarios, not for legal claims about collectability. Last checked 2026-06-29.
- Rate confirmation educational reference - LaneMath Editorial Desk. Used here for: Educational discussion of rate confirmation review, revised confirmations, written approval, and document connections.Used for document literacy. It is not legal advice and does not replace professional review. Last checked 2026-06-29.