ATRI Finds Truck Drivers Detained on 39% of Deliveries

Driver detention in the trucking industry remains a significant challenge, as highlighted by a recent survey from the American Transportation Research Institute (ATRI). In 2023, truck drivers reported being detained during 39.3% of deliveries, which poses considerable risks to productivity and safety. The study reveals that while a slight decrease in detention occurrences has been noted over recent years, the financial impact continues to be severe. Essentially, driver detention— defined as waiting beyond scheduled times for loading or unloading—results in over $14 billion in losses annually due to direct costs and lost productivity. Despite a vast majority of fleets charging detention fees, less than half of these invoices are paid, exposing a major gap in the financial sustainability of truck operations. Female drivers, refrigerated trailer operators, and those from fleets operating in the spot market reported higher rates of detention, with industry statistics indicating drivers experience between 117 and 209 hours of detention annually. Moreover, detained trucks are driven faster on their way to known problematic facilities, suggesting that drivers are adapting their behavior based on past experiences. The causes of driver detention include logistical inefficiencies at customer facilities, such as poor scheduling, insufficient dock space, and staffing shortages, as well as external factors like weather. The proposed solutions to mitigate detention time include better communication with shippers, more strategic arrival times, and even the option of refusing certain loads to maintain operational efficiency. Expert opinion underscores the need for systemic changes within the supply chain to address these inefficiencies, as the current model imposes unnecessary economic strain on the trucking sector. By prioritizing streamlined operations and better planning, the industry can significantly improve working conditions for drivers and enhance overall productivity, driving down costs that negatively affect freight transportation and, ultimately, consumer prices. Addressing the root causes of detention not only supports driver well-being but also strengthens the wider transportation ecosystem.