Accessorial Charges
Additional fees beyond the base linehaul rate for extra services required during pickup, transit, or delivery. Common accessorials include liftgate service, inside delivery, residential delivery, limited access locations, detention, redelivery, and hazmat handling. Accessorial charges can significantly increase the total cost of a shipment if not anticipated in advance.
Real-World Example
A shipment to a retail store without a loading dock incurs a $75 liftgate fee, a $50 limited access charge, and $100 for inside delivery — adding $225 to the base freight rate.
Why Accessorial Charges Matters for Shippers
Freight pricing is rarely straightforward. Knowing how Accessorial Charges works gives you leverage when negotiating rates, helps you spot hidden fees on invoices, and allows you to budget more accurately. Shippers who understand pricing mechanics are better equipped to compare quotes apples-to-apples and avoid costly surprises at delivery.
Common Questions About Accessorial Charges
How is Accessorial Charges calculated in freight shipping?
Accessorial Charges in freight is typically calculated based on a combination of distance, weight, freight class, equipment type, and current market conditions. Additional factors like fuel surcharges, accessorials, and lane-specific supply and demand also play a role. Ask your broker for a transparent rate breakdown.
Can I negotiate Accessorial Charges with my carrier or broker?
In most cases, yes. Understanding how Accessorial Charges is structured gives you the knowledge to negotiate effectively. Volume commitments, flexible pickup windows, and consistent lane history all strengthen your negotiating position.
How can I reduce costs related to Accessorial Charges?
Start by understanding exactly what goes into Accessorial Charges, then look for optimization opportunities: consolidating shipments, adjusting pickup/delivery windows, improving packaging to reduce freight class, or committing to consistent volumes. A good freight broker will help you identify these savings.
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