Regulators seek better data and technology on driver detention

But according to FMCSA, while the OIG and other studies were able to estimated overall wait times, “they were not able to separate normal loading and unloading times (e.g., the time it would usually take to load and unload a commercial motor vehicle under typical schedules) from detention time (delays in the start of the loading and unloading process that disrupt the driver’s available driving and/or on-duty time). This is a critical data gap in our understanding of the detention issue.”

The FMCSA’s proposal asks the public to address seven questions:

• Are data currently available that can accurately record loading, unloading and delay times?
• Is there technology available that could record and delineate prompt loading and unloading times versus the extended delays sometimes experienced by drivers?
• How can delay times be captured and recorded in a systematic, comparable manner?
• Could systematic collection and publication of loading, unloading and delay times be useful in driver or carrier business decisions and help to reduce loading, unloading and delay times?
• What should FMCSA use as an estimate of reasonable loading/ unloading time? Please provide a basis for your response.
• How do contract arrangements between carriers and shippers address acceptable wait times? Do these arrangements include penalties for delays attributable to a carrier or shipper?
• What actions by FMCSA, within its current statutory authority, would help to reduce loading, unloading and delay times?

Responses to the agency’s request must be received by September 9, 2019.