Detention

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

The driver checks in on time, waits past the written free time, and records release time before sending the detention request.

Common mistake

Waiting until invoice submission to ask when the detention clock started.

Paperwork note

Keep appointment time, check-in time, release time, broker approval, BOL, POD, and any gate or facility records together.

What makes detention easier to support

A detention request is strongest when the carrier can connect the delay to written load terms and clean timestamps. Useful records include appointment time, arrival or check-in time, free-time language, departure or release time, broker messages, BOL, POD, and any facility notes.

The weak version is waiting until invoice time to ask how detention works. Carriers usually have a better file when they ask before pickup, send delay updates while still on site, and keep the written approval with the billing packet.

Detention, dwell, and layover

Dwell time describes time spent at a facility. Detention is a compensation request tied to delay beyond agreed free time. Layover generally concerns a delay that pushes the truck into another operating day. The words are related, but the same clock and payment rule should not be assumed for all three.

A strong review begins with the confirmation. Identify when free time starts, whether early arrival counts, when notice is due, and what ends the clock. Then make the timestamp record fit that written rule instead of choosing the most favorable arrival time after the fact.

Questions to ask in context

• When does free time start and when does the detention clock begin?
• What proof does the broker require: check-in record, timestamps, BOL notes, POD, or written approval?
• Who should receive delay updates while the truck is 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.