Layover Pay
Layover pay is compensation a carrier receives when a driver is forced to sit idle at a location overnight or for an extended period due to shipper or receiver delays, weekend holds, or scheduling gaps between loads. Rates typically range from $100–$300 per day.
In Depth
Layovers are costly because a driver sitting still is not earning miles. Layover pay partially offsets the lost revenue but rarely fully compensates for the missed driving time. Common layover scenarios include arriving on a Friday afternoon when a receiver won't accept freight until Monday, waiting for a shipper who delays a load 24+ hours, and being held at a distribution center due to appointment scheduling errors.
Always negotiate layover pay language into your rate confirmation when any sign of scheduling risk exists. Without a written clause, collecting layover pay after the fact is very difficult.
Layover situations also eat into a driver's HOS clock if they remain on duty. Use sleeper berth provisions correctly to preserve available drive time.
Usage Example
Example: 'The receiver couldn't take my delivery until Monday morning. The broker confirmed $200 layover pay for Saturday and Sunday.'
Related Calculators
Related Terms
Detention
Detention pay is compensation for time spent waiting at a shipper or receiver beyond the agreed free time, typically 2 hours. Standard detention rates range from $50–$100/hour.
Rate Confirmation
A rate confirmation (rate con) is a document issued by a broker to a carrier that outlines the terms of a load: pickup and delivery locations, freight description, rate, accessorial rates (detention, TONU), and payment terms.
Hours of Service (HOS)
Hours of Service (HOS) are FMCSA regulations that limit how long commercial drivers can drive and be on duty to prevent fatigued driving. Key limits: 11 hours driving, 14-hour on-duty window, 30-minute break after 8 hours, 60/70-hour cycle.
TONU (Truck Order Not Used)
TONU is a fee paid to a carrier when a shipper cancels or fails to tender freight after a truck has been dispatched and arrives at the pickup location. It compensates the driver for time and fuel wasted.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is layover pay?
Standard layover pay is $100–$300 per day. Negotiate the rate in the rate confirmation before accepting loads with scheduling risk.
Is layover pay the same as detention pay?
No. Detention is hourly pay for waiting at a dock (typically 2-hour free time). Layover is a daily rate for being held overnight or multi-day.