Dispatcher resource center
Trucking glossary.
Fast definitions for the terms used in everyday U.S. dispatch work. Contract terms can vary; always read the actual rate confirmation and broker-carrier agreement.
12 terms
- BOLBill of Lading
- The shipping document describing the freight, shipper, consignee, and shipment terms.
- DeadheadUnloaded miles
- Miles driven without a paying load, including the drive to pickup or repositioning.
- DetentionExtended facility wait
- Compensation that may apply when a driver is held beyond the agreed free time, subject to the rate confirmation and documentation.
- FactoringInvoice financing
- A carrier sells or assigns an invoice to a factoring company for faster payment, usually for a fee.
- LumperThird-party unloading service
- A person or service paid to load or unload freight, often at a warehouse or grocery receiver.
- LayoverDelay into another day
- Compensation that may apply when a truck is delayed long enough to lose a working day, according to the agreed terms.
- MC numberMotor Carrier number
- An FMCSA operating-authority identifier used by certain for-hire interstate carriers and brokers.
- USDOT numberU.S. DOT identifier
- A unique number used to monitor a commercial motor carrier's safety information and compliance.
- PODProof of Delivery
- The signed delivery document showing that the shipment reached the consignee.
- Rate ConfirmationWritten load agreement
- The broker-carrier document showing the rate and key terms for a specific shipment.
- RPMRate per mile
- Gross load rate divided by miles. Loaded RPM excludes deadhead; all-in RPM includes it.
- TONUTruck Ordered Not Used
- Compensation that may apply when a confirmed truck is cancelled after being committed or dispatched, depending on the agreement.