Truck drivers often face long waiting periods at docks or terminals due to late loadings or delays. These delays are not just frustrating—they can also cost you money. Understanding how to claim layover pay ensures you are fairly compensated and keeps your trucking business profitable.
Receiving layover pay can be complicated if you are unfamiliar with documentation, shippers’ policies, or proper claim submission. By working with a reliable truck dispatch company, you can streamline the process and make sure every hour of waiting counts toward your earnings.
What is Layover Pay and Why It Matters
Layover pay is compensation for drivers who are forced to wait overnight or beyond the standard loading/unloading times due to circumstances beyond their control. These delays can happen because of:
Warehouse congestion
Unloading issues
Administrative processing at the shipper’s location
Filing for layover pay ensures that your time isn’t wasted without payment. Many trucking professionals rely on semi truck dispatch services to track waiting hours and submit claims accurately.
Common Challenges Truckers Face with Layover Pay
Incomplete Documentation – Bills of lading or time logs are often missing.
Delayed Submissions – Submitting claims too late can lead to rejection.
Unclear Policies – Shippers may not clearly define layover pay terms.
Manual Tracking Errors – Tracking wait hours manually can result in miscalculations.
A trusted freight dispatch company or 3PL trucking services provider can provide documentation support and simplify claim tracking. This ensures accurate submissions and faster payments.
Step-by-Step Guide to Claim Layover Pay
Step 1: Track Layover Hours
Use logs or digital tools to record:
Arrival and departure times
Waiting periods
Communications with shippers or brokers
Some truck dispatch services provide automated tracking to prevent errors.
Step 2: Review the Contract
Check your carrier agreement for:
Layover pay rates per hour
Free time allowances
Deadlines for claim submission
Knowing the terms helps ensure your claim is valid.
Step 3: Submit Your Claim
Include all documentation and calculation of hours
Use the shipper’s designated claim form if available
Clearly state the total requested layover pay
A freight logistics company or semi truck dispatch service can handle claim submissions on your behalf, making the process faster and easier.
Step 4: Follow Up
Track claim status regularly
Communicate with the shipper or broker
Escalate if payment isn’t received within the agreed timeframe
Dispatch companies often provide quick pay request service for truckers, allowing you to get paid faster even while claims are being processed.
Tips to Maximize Your Layover Pay
Keep Digital Records – Use apps or spreadsheets for accurate tracking.
Understand Shipper Policies – Know what counts as billable layover time.
Partner with Experts – A truck dispatch company provides documentation support and pay assistance.
Use Factoring Services – Establish factoring accounts or factoring setup assistance for truckers to maintain cash flow.
Stay Organized – Keep each load’s paperwork and communication logs together.
Following these tips increases your chances of receiving full compensation without disputes.
Benefits of Using Professional Truck Dispatch Services
Documentation Support – Ensures all paperwork is complete for claims.
Quick Claim Submission – Reduces delays and errors in submitting layover pay requests.
Pay Assistance – Factoring setup and quick pay services improve cash flow.
Expert Advice – Guidance on claim disputes and contract terms.
Time Savings – Focus on driving while the dispatch company handles claims.
Working with a truck dispatch company or freight dispatch services allows truckers to focus on routes and driving schedules while experts manage layover claims efficiently.
FAQ: Layover Pay for Truckers
What counts as layover pay?
Layover pay compensates for waiting periods beyond agreed loading/unloading times due to factors outside the driver’s control.
How much is layover pay per hour?
Rates typically range between $25–$50 per hour, depending on the contract and shipper policies.
Do I need a dispatcher to claim layover pay?
Not necessarily, but partnering with truck dispatch services makes tracking and claim submission easier and more accurate.
Can I file for layover pay if only partially delayed?
Yes, any waiting period beyond free time can be claimed with proper documentation.
How can I get paid faster?
Services like quick pay request service for truckers and factoring setup assistance allow faster payouts even while claims are processed.
Conclusion: Claim Your Layover Pay Efficiently
Layovers happen, but truckers don’t have to lose money because of them. By understanding layover pay, keeping proper documentation, and working with professional semi truck dispatch services or a freight logistics company, you can ensure accurate claims and timely payments.
Take control of your income today. Partner with expert truck dispatch services to file layover pay claims efficiently, reduce delays, and get paid for every hour you work.
