Driver assist accessorial explained
Driver labor outside normal driving duties, such as helping load, unload, count, or move freight.
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
Driver assist should be described as labor outside normal driving and dock check-in, with the task named before it begins.
When it applies
- The driver is asked to count, sort, pallet jack, tailgate, load, unload, or move freight.
- The work was not part of the original service expectation on the rate confirmation.
- 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
- Type of labor, expected time, pay amount, safety limits, and whether the driver may refuse unsafe handling.
- Whether driver assist is separate from lumper, stop-off, or detention charges.
- 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
- Broker approval, facility request, photos if appropriate, time spent, and POD notes.
- Driver note identifying the task performed and the person or facility requesting it.
- 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
- Get written approval before performing extra labor when practical.
- Describe the specific work instead of using a vague phrase like help unload.
- 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 requested driver-assist task, approved amount, and whether the driver should proceed before the confirmation is revised.
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.