TONU accessorial explained
Truck ordered not used, often requested when a load cancels after the carrier committed capacity.
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
TONU is a cancellation issue. The carrier should show that capacity was committed and that the cancellation happened after the truck was dispatched or otherwise reserved.
When it applies
- The broker cancels after accepting the truck and the carrier has begun positioning, rejected other freight, or held capacity.
- The pickup cannot proceed because the load is not available, the order was duplicated, or the shipper cancels.
- 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
- Cancellation terms, TONU amount, pickup arrival requirement, and whether dispatch screenshots or GPS are required.
- Whether the fee changes if the truck arrived at pickup versus was canceled en route.
- 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
- Rate confirmation, dispatch time, cancellation message, truck location, and any arrival record.
- Notes showing rejected reload options or deadhead already driven when the cancellation arrived.
- 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
- State the committed capacity and exact cancellation timing.
- Ask for the TONU confirmation before moving the truck away from the failed pickup.
- 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 TONU for this canceled load, including the approved amount and any truck-location or dispatch proof needed.
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.