Freight glossaryTruckingFreight Pricing
TONU
Definition
TONU (truck ordered, not used) is a charge a carrier bills when a truck is dispatched for a load that is canceled or not ready when the driver arrives.
What it means
Carriers define it in their accessorial schedules. Union Pacific's truckload schedule describes it as "Driver arrives on site and is advised that the load is not ready or canceled," and says the charge will not be approved if the shipper gave 24 hours' notice of the cancellation.[1] Heartland Express applies an "equipment ordered and not used" charge when the shipper cancels without at least four hours' notice after equipment is dispatched.[2]
The notice window and the amount differ by carrier and contract, so the rate confirmation or tariff that governs the load is what decides whether a TONU applies.
Example
A shipper cancels a pickup after the carrier's truck has already been dispatched and is 20 minutes away. Because the cancellation came inside the carrier's notice window, the carrier bills a TONU under its rate confirmation.
Related
Related terms
- Accessorial ChargeAn accessorial charge is a fee added to the base freight rate for extra services or events, such as...Glossary
- LayoverA layover is a charge for a driver and truck held overnight or for a long unplanned stop because a load could...Glossary
- DetentionDetention is a charge for holding equipment beyond the free time allowed: in ocean shipping, for keeping the...Glossary
Sources
- Union Pacific, “Accessorial Charges and Payment Terms (truckload),” Carrier accessorial schedule. Accessed September 30, 2026.
- Heartland Express, “SRG "A": Rules and Accessorial Charges,” Carrier rules tariff. Accessed September 30, 2026.
General operational information, not legal, customs or regulatory advice. Rules and rates change; confirm current requirements with the agency, carrier or contract that governs your shipment.