Dispatch AutopilotCOD vs COP in car hauling: what they mean and how to handle the money
COD and COP loads get you paid on the spot instead of waiting weeks for a broker, but the money passes through your driver’s hands. Here is how to handle it safely.
What COD and COP mean
- COD (cash on delivery): the receiver pays the carrier when the vehicle is delivered.
- COP (cash on pickup): the shipper pays the carrier when the vehicle is picked up.
Often a broker posts a load with part of the price paid by the broker later and part as COD or COP. Read the dispatch sheet carefully so the driver collects the right amount.
Which payment forms to accept
Agree on the payment form before dispatch and write it on the order. Cash is simple but risky to carry. Many carriers accept only cash, certified funds (cashier’s check or money order) or an instant transfer such as Zelle confirmed before unloading. Avoid personal checks on COD loads.
Track every dollar the driver collects
- Record the COD or COP amount on the load before dispatch.
- When the driver collects, record the amount, method and date.
- Decide whether the driver turns the money in to the office or keeps it and has it deducted from their pay that week.
- Reconcile weekly: every COD load should show either “turned in” or “deducted from settlement”.
Dispatch Autopilot keeps a COD / COP log per load and deducts kept money from the driver’s settlement automatically. See driver settlements.
Questions
What is the difference between COD and COP?
COD is paid by the receiver at delivery; COP is paid by the shipper at pickup.
Can a driver keep COD money?
Some carriers let drivers keep COD cash and deduct it from their weekly pay. Record it either way so nothing is lost.
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