Detention clock

Carrier note

Use this term in context with the rate confirmation, broker communication, facility instructions, and billing paperwork. A short definition is useful, but the written load terms control the actual freight decision.

Carrier example

A carrier sees detention clock mentioned during dispatch and checks whether the rate confirmation says how approval, documentation, and billing should work.

Common mistake

Assuming detention clock is approved because it was discussed by phone.

Paperwork note

For detention clock, keep written approval, timestamps, receipts when relevant, BOL, POD, revised confirmation, and invoice notes.

The detention clock depends on the written trigger

The detention clock is the timeline used to determine when facility delay may become a compensable request. It might start at appointment time, actual check-in, or another event named in the confirmation. Arrival before an appointment does not automatically mean free time starts early.

Keep each time separately: scheduled appointment, property arrival, check-in, dock assignment, loading or unloading completion, and release. Then apply the written free-time rule rather than choosing the longest possible interval. Delay notices and approval requirements can matter as much as the timestamps.

Detention clock versus total dwell time

Dwell time measures how long the truck remains at the facility. The detention clock applies the written free-time and notification terms to decide which portion may support a request. The two periods can be different even when they use the same arrival and departure records.

For example, early arrival may count toward total dwell but not toward free time if the clause starts at appointment. Keep the raw timeline first, then calculate the requested period under the confirmation instead of rewriting the timeline around the claim.

Questions to ask in context

• Which event starts free time under the written clause: appointment, arrival, or check-in?
• Are arrival, check-in, dock, completion, and release times recorded separately?
• Were required delay notices sent while the truck was still at the facility?

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.
• Industry terminology and editorial explanation - LaneMath Editorial Desk. Used here for: Plain-English definitions, checklists, and example-only calculations.Editorial explanations are not official guidance, legal advice, or market data. Last checked 2026-06-29.