Detention time calculator

How to use detention documentation with this calculator

This calculator computes billable hours and pay from the times you enter — but the times you enter must be supported by documentation to collect detention. Record your arrival time at check-in with a gate slip, stamped BOL, or a timestamped text to your dispatcher. Record your departure the same way. The gap between those two documented times, minus the free time in the rate confirmation, is what you invoice.

Notify the broker in writing before you leave the facility. Send a text or email with the load number, facility name, arrival time, and a statement that detention is billing. Brokers who were not notified during the stop have a stronger argument to dispute the charge. Written notification before departure — while the truck is still at the dock — is the standard that holds up when a broker disputes the invoice.

Billing increments and rate confirmation terms

Some rate confirmations specify that detention is billed in full-hour increments; others allow half-hour increments or pro-rated billing. If the rate confirmation is silent on the increment, billing in half-hour increments is common and generally accepted. An increment setting that benefits the carrier (billing the next full hour up rather than the exact minute) is standard practice in the industry, but the rate confirmation controls if it specifies otherwise.