In the trucking industry, time is money—and few things are more frustrating than sitting idle due to delays outside your control. That’s where layover pay comes in. This essential compensation helps truck drivers recoup some income lost when held up without freight. In this guide, we break down everything professional drivers need to know about layover pay: what it is, how it works, industry standards, and how to make sure you’re receiving it.

What Is Layover Pay?

Layover pay is compensation provided to truck drivers when they are delayed for an extended period—typically 24 hours or more—due to reasons beyond their control, such as shipper/receiver delays, breakdowns, or scheduling errors. It acknowledges the downtime drivers face and provides financial relief for those non-driving hours.

 Layover Pay vs. Detention Pay: Key Differences

Feature Layover Pay Detention Pay
Trigger Time Usually after 24 hours of delay Starts after 1-2 hours of waiting
Typical Cause Missed loads, scheduling errors Delay at shipper or receiver docks
Payment Amount Fixed daily rate Hourly rate after grace period
Duration Paid per day Paid per hour

Detention pay is more short-term and tied to loading/unloading. Layover pay kicks in when drivers are stuck overnight or longer.

How Much Is Layover Pay? Industry Standards in 2025

The amount varies by carrier, but typical layover pay in 2025 is between $75 and $200 per day. Owner-operators and company drivers may have different pay structures. Here’s a general breakdown:

  • Company Drivers: $75–$150/day
  • Owner-Operators: May negotiate per contract
  • Teams: Often paid individually if both drivers are delayed

Higher-paying fleets or union carriers may offer more generous compensation.

 Factors That Influence Layover Pay Eligibility

Several factors can impact whether you qualify for layover pay:

  • Cause of Delay: Must be outside the driver’s control (e.g., not mechanical failure due to neglect).
  • Advance Notification: Carriers often require timely communication.
  • Documentation: Proof of arrival, communication logs, and timesheets help validate claims.
  • Type of Load: Some specialized loads or high-priority freight may waive layover pay terms.

Drivers should always check company policy or contract terms before assuming compensation eligibility.

How to Request Layover Pay Correctly

Ensuring you’re properly compensated requires accurate, timely action. Follow these steps:

  1. Notify Dispatch Immediately: Call your dispatcher as soon as you realize you’ll be delayed.
  2. Log All Details: Document arrival time, contact attempts, and any written confirmations.
  3. Submit Proof: Include ELD logs, timestamps, and photos if possible.
  4. Follow Up: Check your settlement statement and follow up if missing pay.

Maintaining professionalism and clear communication is critical for timely reimbursement. Sample Layover Pay Flow Diagram

Pro Tips for Maximizing Layover Pay

  • Know Your Rights: Always read the fine print of your employment or lease agreement.
  • Negotiate Upfront: Especially for owner-operators, negotiate layover pay terms before hauling a load.
  • Stay Productive: Use layover time for truck maintenance, paperwork, rest, or trip planning.
  • Use Tech Tools: Mobile apps like Transflo, KeepTruckin, or company-specific platforms help automate claim submissions.

 Common Scenarios That Trigger Layover Pay

  1. Freight Not Ready: Shipper delays beyond 24 hours.
  2. Cancelled Load: Last-minute cancellation with no replacement load.
  3. Receiver Closed: Delivery site unexpectedly closed upon arrival.
  4. Mechanical Delays: Not caused by driver error, such as part delays at repair facilities.

Each situation may be evaluated individually by your dispatcher or fleet manager.

Legal Protections and Carrier Policies

While there’s no federal mandate requiring layover pay, many carriers implement internal policies to stay competitive in driver retention. Union contracts and collective bargaining agreements may include stricter rules.

Tip: Always retain a copy of your carrier’s layover policy and clarify ambiguities with HR or dispatch. Related Terms You Should Know

  • TONU (Truck Ordered Not Used): Payment when a load is canceled after the truck is dispatched.
  • Deadhead Miles: Driving without a load; may or may not be compensated.
  • Breakdown Pay: Similar to layover pay but triggered by mechanical issues.

Understanding these terms empowers drivers to claim fair compensation for all forms of downtime.

 Conclusion: Stay Informed, Stay Paid

Layover pay is a vital part of fair compensation in the trucking industry. By knowing how and when it applies, communicating effectively with dispatch, and keeping meticulous records, drivers can avoid lost income and reduce the stress of unexpected delays.

To protect your earnings and time, stay proactive, stay compliant, and never leave money on the table.

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