Layover pay is a very important topic within the trucking industry. It is the rate that the driver is paid by the company or the company of the shipper or receiver during a layover. This time spent stationary can be very stressful for a driver who is earning CPM, and trucking layover pay is a way to reduce that stress. In this post, we will explore the different aspects of layovers and layover pay.
Why Do Trucking Layovers Happen?
Trucking layovers happen for various reasons, but they are often caused by errors or delays in the shipment process. Both the shippers and receivers work together to fill the schedules to capacity, but there is always room for error which can cause a delay. These errors can be caused by several different issues.
Common Issues
One of the most common mistakes that can cause a layover is incorrect appointment information. This can happen when the shipper or receiver provides the wrong time or location for the truck to arrive. Appointment miscommunication can also come from incorrect PU or DELV appointment numbers. When this happens, the driver may have to wait hours or even one or more days for the correct information to be provided.
Another common issue is when the receiver is short-staffed, running behind schedule, or has broken equipment. This can cause delays in the unloading process, resulting in the driver having to wait for longer than expected.
Finally, sometimes the product is not ready when the shipper expected it to be. Delays of this nature can happen for various reasons, such as production delays or unexpected issues with the product. This can cause the driver to have to wait for the product to be ready before they can continue on their journey.
When a layover occurs, it is important for both the driver and the shipper to understand the compensation needed. Drivers should contact their employer for more information about the layover process to ensure that all the needed steps are required both for the movement of the shipment and to ensure the layover payment is received.
How Much is Layover Pay for Truck Drivers?
The amount that is paid to drivers for layovers and detention time is determined by the company. On average, it is an hourly rate of $10-$15 an hour. This is usually only paid out to drivers who are paid a cents-per-mile rate as they would not otherwise be earning any money during the delays.
Difference Between Layover and Detention Pay
As a truck driver, it’s important to understand the difference between layover and detention pay. These terms may sound similar, but they are different in terms of the situation that triggers them, and the amount of money truckers are entitled to for waiting.
Layover Pay
Layover pay is the rate that a driver is paid by either the shipper, receiver, or trucking company when they are held up for an extended period of time. This is usually due to unforeseen circumstances such as bad weather, mechanical issues, or problems with the load. The driver will typically be paid an hourly rate after a 24-hour grace period while on a layover.
Detention Pay
Detention pay, on the other hand, is the money that a driver is paid for waiting at a shipper or receiver’s facility. This happens when a trucker arrives on time but is delayed in loading or unloading. After a two-hour grace period, the driver is paid for each hour they are detained beyond the time they were scheduled to arrive.
It is important to understand that detention pay is only paid when the driver arrives on time but is delayed in loading or unloading. If the driver is delayed because they arrive early or arrive late for their appointment time, or there is some other fault of the driver or trucking company, they will not be paid detention pay.
It is also important to note that every company has different policies for paying layover and detention pay. Some companies may have a policy for when layover occurs but none for detention time. Be sure to check with your employer for their specific policy and how they will pay for detention time and trucking layovers.
How You Can Avoid Detention
As a truck driver, you know that detention time can be a frustrating and costly experience. However, there are steps that you can take to avoid this and the associated costs!
One of the key ways to avoid detention time as a truck driver is through effective communication with the shipper or receiver. This means letting them know your expected arrival time well in advance and checking in with them if there are any delays on your end. By keeping the lines of communication open, you can work with them to minimize any issues with the appointment time for your load.
Another way to avoid detention time is to plan your arrival time carefully. While it may seem logical to arrive early to ensure you are on time, this can also result in detention. Most shippers or receivers won’t be ready to receive or load your truck until the scheduled appointment. As this would be an error on your end, you may experience detention without compensation.
Similarly, arriving late can also result in detention. If you are running late, it’s important to communicate the details of your changed schedule as soon as possible. If they are made aware of it in advance, they may be able to minimize this delay.
ShipEX and Trucking Layovers
ShipEX is a unique company because our drivers do not have to worry about layover pay. Instead of being paid on a cents-per-mile basis, ShipEX drivers earn a true salary. When industry-related delays occur, ShipEX drivers are not losing any income. If you are interested in having consistent pay even in the face of layovers, contact a ShipEX recruiter today!
Disclaimer:
This blog post is for informational purposes only. ShipEX makes no warranties about this information’s completeness, reliability, or accuracy. Any action you take upon the information on this website is strictly at your own risk. ShipEX will not be liable for any losses and damages in connection therewith. Furthermore, nothing in this blog alters ShipEX Policies which are subject to change without notice.
