Free trucking tools / Detention Pay Calculator
Detention Pay Calculator
Detention is what a shipper or receiver owes you when they hold your truck past the free time in your rate confirmation. Most rate cons spell out a number of free hours and an hourly rate after that, but the math gets messy with overnight holds and partial hours.
Enter your check-in (arrival) and check-out (departure) times from your logs or gate receipt, the free hours, and the hourly rate from your rate con. The calculator shows total time on site, billable hours, and the amount due, then gives you a one-line entry you can paste straight into an invoice.
Check any broker free (authority, BMC-84 bond, surety). If a load goes unpaid, get a ready-to-send demand letter and bond-claim packet: $9 with code LAUNCH10 through Oct 29 (then $19).
Frequently asked questions
When does detention time start?
Usually at your scheduled appointment time or your check-in time, whichever is later, but it depends on your rate confirmation. Read the detention clause before you bill and use the same start rule it uses.
What proof do I need to bill detention?
Keep in/out times on the bill of lading or a gate receipt, and ELD records showing when you arrived and left. Many brokers also require you to notify them while you are still on site, so call or message the broker before the free time runs out.
How many free hours are standard?
It varies by rate confirmation. The calculator lets you enter whatever free time your rate con states.
The broker will not pay my detention. What can I do?
Send a written invoice with your times and proof first. If it stays unpaid, you can send a formal demand letter and, if the broker still does not pay, file a claim against its BMC-84 bond or BMC-85 trust. UnpaidLoad builds that packet for you.
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Results are estimates for planning. Check your rate confirmation and agreements for the terms that apply to you.
Not legal advice. This is a document-preparation tool, not a law firm. Results aren't guaranteed. Verify all info with FMCSA and consult an attorney for legal questions.