Accessorial Schedule
A published list of additional service charges that a carrier applies for services beyond standard pickup and delivery. The accessorial schedule itemizes fees for liftgate service, inside delivery, residential delivery, limited access locations, notification/appointment required, hazmat handling, excess length, sort and segregate, redelivery, storage, and other non-standard services. Shippers should review a carrier's accessorial schedule during rate negotiations to understand their total potential cost exposure and negotiate caps or waivers on frequently incurred accessorials.
Real-World Example
A shipper reviews their LTL carrier's accessorial schedule and discovers that deliveries to their rural customer locations incur a $125 limited-access surcharge, $75 for notification required, and $100 for liftgate — adding $300 per shipment. They negotiate a blanket $150 surcharge covering all three services as part of their annual contract.
Why Accessorial Schedule Matters for Shippers
Freight pricing is rarely straightforward. Knowing how Accessorial Schedule 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 Schedule
How is Accessorial Schedule calculated in freight shipping?
Accessorial Schedule 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 Schedule with my carrier or broker?
In most cases, yes. Understanding how Accessorial Schedule 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 Schedule?
Start by understanding exactly what goes into Accessorial Schedule, 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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