How to Get Paid for Layovers: Your 2025 Guide to Extra Cash
Introduction
Making the most of every moment on the road is crucial for truck owner-operators aiming to maximize their revenue. One area that’s often underestimated is earning compensation for layovers—the time you’re stuck waiting at terminals, docks, or customer locations. With the right strategies, you can ensure these idle hours turn into legitimate income. This guide explains, step-by-step, how to get paid for layovers, including actionable tips, best practices, and expert insights tailored for the 2025 trucking landscape.
Key Takeaways
- Understand what qualifies as a layover and why it impacts owner-operators’ earnings.
- Learn the different types of layover pay policies and how to review your contract.
- Discover practical steps to ensure you receive compensation for layovers.
- Explore technology and apps that simplify layover tracking and payment.
- Get answers to common questions about layover pay.
What Is Layover Pay and Why Does It Matter?
What Is a Layover for Truck Drivers?
A layover occurs when a driver waits, sometimes for hours or days, at a shipper or receiver before loading or unloading freight. For example, if you arrive at a warehouse and their dock isn’t available until the next day, you’re experiencing a layover.
Why Is Layover Compensation Important?
Every hour spent idle without pay cuts into your potential earnings and impacts your schedule. Receiving fair layover pay ensures your downtime is compensated, reducing financial losses from unexpected delays.
Real-World Example:
Suppose you arrive at a consignee by 7:00 PM, but they cannot unload your trailer until 9:00 AM the next day. If your contract offers a $100 flat rate for overnight delays after two unpaid hours, you can recover part of your lost revenue.
Understanding Layover Pay Policies
Types of Layover Pay
Trucking companies compensate layovers in several ways:
- Flat Rate Layover Compensation: Many carriers pay a fixed amount per layover period, generally ranging from $50 to $200, depending on the company and duration.
- Hourly Layover Pay: Other fleets offer an hourly rate for extended delays, often between $20 and $35 per hour, subject to a cap (for example, no more than 10 hours paid per layover).
Example:
ABC Trucking pays $150 for layovers exceeding 8 hours, while XYZ Logistics pays $25 per hour after a two-hour grace period, up to $200 daily.
Reviewing Your Contract or Lease Agreement
Before accepting a route, thoroughly review your contract or lease agreement. Look for specific clauses about layover compensation, payment triggers, required documentation, and exclusion periods (such as weather-related delays).
- Tip: If you don’t see clear information, always ask your dispatcher or HR department for clarification in writing.
How To Get Paid for Layovers: Step-by-Step Strategies
1. Be Proactive and Communicate Early
Notify your dispatcher or fleet manager immediately when you anticipate or experience a layover. Provide details about your arrival time, location, and expected delay to establish a clear record.
Pro Tip: Use messaging apps or company portals that automatically timestamp communications, creating an audit trail.
2. Keep Detailed Documentation
Maintain accurate logs of your waiting times, showing exactly when you arrived and departed. Use smartphone photos of BOLs, ELD time entries, and geo-stamped notes for solid supporting evidence.
Example:
John, an owner-operator for a Midwest carrier, provides screenshots from his ELD and records on his dispatch app. This minimizes payment disputes and speeds up layover approvals.
3. Follow Up on Every Layover Pay Request
After a delay, promptly submit your layover pay claim per company procedures. Follow up with payroll or dispatch if you don’t see the extra compensation by your next pay period.
Pro Tip: Set reminders to check the status of your payment—the squeaky wheel often gets the grease.
4. Negotiate Better Layover Terms
If you notice your layover pay is below industry averages or your downtime increases, approach your company with data. Compare your wait times, competitor pay rates, and national averages for stronger negotiation leverage.
Leveraging Technology for Layover Compensation
Use Specialized Trucking Apps
Modern driver apps like KeepTruckin, Trucker Path, or Fleet Complete make it easier to log and track layover periods, with features such as:
- Geo-stamped location/time logs
- Automated waiting time tracking
- Document upload for instant proof
Employ Dispatch Services
Owner-operators can benefit from professional dispatchers who expertly manage loads, negotiate layover rates, and handle paperwork. This allows you to stay focused on driving rather than administrative hassles.
Industry Best Practices for Layover Compensation
- Always clarify layover pay rates and timelines before accepting new contracts.
- Use written communication wherever possible for documentation.
- Stay organized with digital and paper logs in case of carrier audits.
- Understand exceptions: Some contracts exclude weather delays or weekends from paid layovers.
- Network with other drivers to benchmark compensation and refine negotiation strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions About Layover Pay
How is layover pay typically calculated for truck drivers?
Most carriers pay a flat fee (e.g., $100–$200) per layover after a waiting threshold—commonly after two hours or more. Some offer an hourly rate after a minimum delay, capped daily.
What documents do I need to claim layover pay?
Typically, companies require logs showing check-in and check-out times, shipment numbers, and communications with dispatchers during the layover.
Can I request higher layover pay?
Yes, you can negotiate layover compensation, especially with supporting evidence of frequent or lengthy delays compared to industry standards.
Are there federal laws about layover pay in trucking?
No specific federal rule governs layover pay, but general labor laws and FMCSA hours-of-service rules apply. Company and contract terms ultimately dictate layover compensation.
Do all companies pay for layovers?
No. While many carriers have formal layover pay policies, some small fleets or owner-operator arrangements may not. Always get terms in writing before committing to a load.
Conclusion
Layovers are an unavoidable part of trucking, but they don’t have to mean lost earnings. By understanding how layover pay works, carefully reviewing agreements, keeping organized records, and leveraging digital tools, owner-operators can ensure they’re compensated for downtime. Consistent communication and proactive negotiation can turn unavoidable waits into valuable income—making each mile, and each hour, count toward your bottom line.