TONU Rates 2026
How much to charge when loads cancel. Current TONU rates range from $150-$500+ depending on equipment type and circumstances.
O TruckingTONU Rates 2026: $150-$500 Canceled Load Fees by Equipment
$150
Dry van minimum
$250
Industry average
$500+
Specialized equipment
50%
Of line haul (alternative)
TONU Rates by Equipment Type (2026)
| Equipment | Standard TONU | Premium TONU | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dry Van | $150-$200 | $250-$300 | Most common equipment type. Brokers often start at $150. |
| Reefer | $200-$300 | $300-$400 | Higher due to fuel costs for running unit and perishable freight risks. |
| Flatbed | $200-$300 | $350-$500 | Includes consideration for tarps, straps, and securement time. |
| Step Deck/RGN | $250-$400 | $400-$600 | Specialized equipment, limited load options. Commands premium. |
| Hotshot | $100-$200 | $200-$300 | Lower due to smaller equipment but still compensates for lost opportunity. |
| Power Only | $100-$150 | $150-$250 | No trailer repositioning but still covers deadhead and time. |
| Heavy Haul/Oversized | $400-$600 | $600-$1000+ | Permit costs, escort vehicles, and extremely limited load options. |
The 50% Rule
Many carriers charge TONU as 50% of the line haul OR a flat rate—whichever is higher. For a $2,000 load, that would be $1,000 TONU. This protects you on high-value loads.
Factors That Affect TONU Rates
Distance already traveled (deadhead)
More miles to pick up = higher TONU. Often calculated at $1.50-$2.50/mile deadhead.
Time of cancellation
Last-minute cancellations (within hours) command higher fees than 24+ hour notice.
Already at shipper
If you've arrived and load cancels, full TONU applies. Some charge detention + TONU.
Market conditions
Tight capacity = higher TONU. Loose market = harder to collect maximum.
Relationship with broker
Long-term partners may pay more to maintain relationship. New brokers may fight.
Load value/rate
Some calculate TONU as 50% of line haul. Higher-paying load = higher TONU.
TONU Negotiation Scripts
Broker says 'We don't pay TONU'
"I understand, but I've already turned down other loads and committed my equipment. $[X] TONU is standard in the industry. If we can't agree on TONU upfront, I'll need to pass on the load."
Broker offers $100 TONU
"My TONU is $[250] minimum. That covers my deadhead, fuel, and the opportunity cost of loads I turned down to commit to this. Can we meet at $[200]?"
Load cancels after you've arrived
"I'm at [shipper] and the load isn't here. Per our rate confirmation, TONU is $[X]. I need that issued before I leave so we can get this processed. I've got photos showing I arrived at [time]."
Broker says shipper cancelled, not them
"I understand, but my agreement is with you. You'll need to collect from the shipper. My TONU is $[X] as stated on the rate confirmation. When can I expect that to be processed?"
TONU Documentation Checklist
Good documentation is the difference between getting paid and fighting for months.
Sample TONU Language for Rate Confirmation
TONU POLICY: In the event of cancellation within 6 hours of scheduled pickup, or if carrier arrives and load is not available, a Truck Ordered Not Used (TONU) fee of $[YOUR RATE] will apply. For cancellation after carrier has departed origin, TONU will be calculated at $[X]/mile deadhead plus flat fee, or 50% of line haul, whichever is greater. Carrier will provide arrival documentation for TONU payment.
Customize with your rates and include on EVERY rate confirmation.
We Include TONU on Every Load
Our dispatch team negotiates TONU into every rate confirmation. If a load cancels, you get paid. No exceptions, no fighting.