Lumper Fee
A Lumper Fee is a charge that truck drivers or trucking companies pay for loading or unloading services at delivery locations, usually warehouses or distribution centers. This is a common term in the trucking industry where professional loading/unloading crews (called "lumpers") handle the cargo instead of the truck driver. These fees can range from $50 to several hundred dollars per load. Understanding lumper fees is important because they affect both company expenses and driver reimbursements, and they often appear in job descriptions and expense reports.
Examples in Resumes
Managed and tracked Lumper Fee reimbursements for fleet of 50 trucks
Developed efficient system for processing Lumper Fees at multiple warehouse locations
Reduced company expenses by negotiating Lumper Fee rates with distribution centers
Typical job title: "Truck Drivers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Truck Drivers
Online Communities
Job Boards
Professional Networks
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you handle disputes over lumper fee charges?
Expected Answer: A senior driver or manager should explain the process of documenting fees, obtaining receipts, proper communication channels with dispatch, and knowledge of company reimbursement policies.
Q: What strategies have you implemented to manage lumper fee costs effectively?
Expected Answer: Should discuss experience with pre-arranging lumper services, negotiating rates, maintaining relationships with regular facilities, and understanding different payment methods (cash, EFS checks, company cards).
Mid Level Questions
Q: What documentation do you need for lumper fee reimbursement?
Expected Answer: Should mention keeping original receipts, recording load numbers, facility information, and following company-specific procedures for reimbursement.
Q: How do you handle a situation where a facility demands a lumper fee but dispatch hasn't authorized it?
Expected Answer: Should explain proper communication procedures with dispatch, understanding company policies, and professional handling of facility staff while waiting for authorization.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What is a lumper fee and when might you encounter one?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate basic understanding that it's a charge for loading/unloading services at warehouses and know that they need authorization from dispatch before paying.
Q: What methods of payment are typically accepted for lumper fees?
Expected Answer: Should know common payment methods like ComCheck, EFS check, company credit cards, or cash, and basic procedure for getting reimbursed.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-1 years)
- Basic understanding of lumper fees
- Knowledge of payment methods
- Basic documentation procedures
- Communication with dispatch
Mid (1-3 years)
- Efficient handling of fee documentation
- Understanding of facility procedures
- Strong communication with warehouse staff
- Knowledge of company reimbursement policies
Senior (3+ years)
- Negotiation with facilities
- Management of fee disputes
- Training other drivers on procedures
- Cost reduction strategies
Red Flags to Watch For
- No knowledge of proper documentation procedures
- History of unauthorized lumper fee payments
- Poor communication with dispatch about fees
- Inability to handle basic payment methods
- No understanding of reimbursement processes
