How to Prepare a Load for Pickup and Avoid Detention Fees
- MC 1425624 · USDOT 3883624
- Canada and USA lanes
- Hot load and emergency service
- Cambridge, Ontario
Detention is the charge a carrier applies when a truck waits longer than the agreed free time. It is one of the most avoidable extra costs in trucking. This guide explains how to prepare a load for pickup and avoid detention fees.
Before the truck arrives
- Confirm the appointment: give the carrier an exact pickup time and the dock or gate instructions.
- Have the freight ready: the load should be fully packed, palletized and staged before the driver arrives.
- Complete the paperwork: BOL, commercial invoice and packing list should be prepared and match.
- Label everything: clear labels with consignee, piece count and handling marks.
- Confirm equipment type: make sure the right trailer was ordered for the freight.
Packing and securing
- Use sturdy pallets and wrap or strap them properly.
- Make sure weights and dimensions are accurate on the BOL.
- For flatbed freight, have dunnage and blocking available if required.
- For temperature-controlled freight, confirm the product is at the correct temperature.
Assign one dock contact who can sign paperwork and direct the driver.
At loading
Provide a dedicated contact, keep the dock clear and load in a logical order to avoid rework. Have a forklift and operator ready for the appointment time.
For cross border loads
Make sure the commercial invoice is complete and the customs broker has the shipment details before the truck leaves, so pickup is not held for paperwork.
Understand your free time
Ask the carrier how much free time is included and how detention is calculated. Knowing the terms helps you plan the dock schedule.
Key takeaway: A load that is ready, labelled and documented before the truck arrives costs less and ships faster.
Frequently asked questions
What is detention in trucking?
Detention is a fee charged when a driver waits at a pickup or delivery beyond the free time included in the rate.
How long is free time at pickup?
It depends on the carrier and agreement, so confirm it when you book.
How can a shipper reduce wait time?
Have the freight staged, paperwork complete and loading staff ready at the appointment time.
A Cambridge, Ontario carrier hauling dry van, reefer, open flatbed and Flatbed Conestoga freight between Canada and the USA. Carrier authority: MC 1425624, USDOT 3883624.
Need a quote or a load moved?
Tell us the lane and we will reply with a quote and your load code.
