Layover vs Detention Pay - What’s the Difference?
As a truck driver, there is more than a single factor that determines your final compensation. Two of these factors are layover pay and detention pay. Often used interchangeably, layover and detention pay are commonly confused. Read on to see what makes up layover pay and detention pay, and compare the benefits and drawbacks of each type of compensation.
What is Layover Pay in Trucking?
Layover pay in the trucking industry refers to the compensation truck drivers receive for the time they spend waiting for a shipper or receiver for one or more days. Layovers are typically a result of a delay or scheduling issue, where a driver arrives at their destination earlier than expected or when there is a gap between loads. During a layover, the driver may be required to stay in their truck or in a designated area and be responsible for their own meals and lodging.
When Does Layover Pay Begin Accumulating?
The standard practice in the industry is layover pay does not begin accumulating until after a driver has been delayed a full 24 hours. Some trucking companies require an even longer layover before the driver can receive layover pay.
How Layover Pay is Calculated
Layover pay calculations often depend on the company, with some determining when layover pay starts and the rate at which it is paid out.
Common methods used to calculate layover pay:
- Flat fee - a set amount paid each day or hour a driver spends on layover (anywhere from $20 to $200), regardless of their pay rate or length of the layover. This may include a 24-hour cap.
- Percentage of regular pay rate - a set amount of an employee’s regular hourly rate paid for each hour spent on a layover (for example 50%).
- Total compensation - where layover pay is included in an employee's overall compensation package combined with their regular pay, benefits, and other bonuses.
Pros and Cons of Layover Pay in Trucking
| Pros | Cons |
| Additional compensation | Unpredictable schedule |
| Predictable income | Limited schedule |
| Rest and relaxation | Time away from home |
| Access to facilities | Reduced productivity during downtime |
What is Detention Pay in Trucking?
Detention pay in the trucking industry refers to the compensation drivers are paid when delayed at a shipper or receiver’s site beyond a specified amount of time. The purpose of detention pay is to compensate workers for their time and expenses incurred during their delay.
When Does Detention Pay Begin Accumulating?
The accumulation of detention pay begins after a specified waiting period has passed. This period is dependent on the company, with most beginning to pay out detention pay several hours after the delay begins. Some companies like Brakebush, however, offer detention pay after only 2 hours.
How Detention Pay is Calculated
How detention pay is calculated can vary depending on the industry or company.
Common methods used to calculate detention pay:
- Flat fee - a set amount for each hour or day an employee spends in detention, not counting their regular pay rate or length of detention.
- Hourly rate - a calculated hourly rate, based on the driver’s regular pay rate (for example 50% of their regular hourly rate).
- Percentage of total load rate - a calculated amount as a percentage of the total pay for a particular load.
Pros and Cons of Detention Pay in Trucking
| Pros | Cons |
| Compensation for lost time | Unpredictable schedules |
| Additional income | Delays can be frustrating and stressful |
| Improved retention and job satisfaction | May be limited in scope or duration |
| Can offset expenses | Can be subject to dispute or delay |
Differences Between Layover Pay and Detention Pay
| Features | Layover Pay | Detention Pay |
| Definition | Compensation for time spent during scheduled breaks or layovers. | Compensation for time spent waiting beyond a specified threshold. |
| Trigger | Typically based on a pre-determined schedule or route. | Triggered by specific events or delays, such as waiting at a dock. |
| Amount | May be a flat fee or hourly rate. | May be a flat fee or hourly rate, or a percentage of total load pay. |
| Availability | Depends on the employer and the specific employment contract. | Depends on the employer and the specific employment contract. |
| Predictability | Generally more predictable than detention pay. | Can be unpredictable and subject to unexpected delays. |
| Usefulness | Provides compensation and time off during scheduled breaks. | Provides compensation for lost time and potential expenses. |
| Limitations | May be limited in scope or duration. | May be subject to specific conditions or rules. |
| Potential drawbacks | Can result in time away from home and reduced productivity. | Can be frustrating and stressful, and delays can be unpredictable. |
Frequently Asked Questions on Layover vs Detention Pay
What is the difference between layover pay and detention pay?
The main difference between layover pay and detention pay is what the driver is compensated for. Layover pay compensates drivers for the time spent during scheduled breaks or layovers between shipments. Detention pay compensates drivers for the time they spend waiting beyond a specified amount of time during a shipment, such as an extended wait time at a dock. Layover pay is typically based on a pre-determined schedule or route, while dentation pay is triggered by specific delays.
What is a layover fee in trucking?
A layover fee in trucking is a payment made to a driver when they are required to take a break or stop over for an extended period of time. Unlike layover pay, which compensates the driver for time spent during scheduled breaks or layovers, a layover fee is a separate payment made to the driver to compensate them for any additional time and expenses incurred as a result of the layover.
What is standard layover pay?
Standard layover pay is typically a flat fee ranging from $50 to $200 per day. Hourly layover pay can range from $10 to $20 an hour.
What does detention mean in trucking?
Detention in trucking refers to the time a driver spends waiting at a shipper or receiver’s facility beyond a specified time. Detention time is an industry-known term to describe the time a driver is delayed beyond their control.
Who is detention paid to?
Detention is paid to the driver, typically by their carrier or the company the driver is working for. The driver may be required to provide documentation or evidence of the detention time they incurred.