The six inputs that set your rate
Every legitimate freight quote is assembled from the same components.
- Distance and lane balance — is capacity heading that direction anyway?
- Equipment type — dry van, reefer, flatbed, step deck each price differently
- Weight, dimensions and density
- Timing — firm windows, expedited service and team drivers cost more
- Fuel surcharge, which moves with diesel pricing
- Accessorials — liftgate, appointment, detention, tarping, permits
Why the same lane quotes differently week to week
Freight pricing is a capacity market. When trucks are already heading your direction, backhaul pricing is favourable. When a region is short of equipment — harvest, construction season, weather disruption, year-end retail — the same lane costs more.
This is why a rate is quoted for a shipment on a date, not as a permanent price list.
Costs shippers forget to budget for
- Detention when loading or unloading runs past free time
- Layover when a receiver cannot take the load that day
- Redelivery after a failed first attempt
- Tarping, permits and escorts on open-deck or oversize freight
- Storage or demurrage on container and drayage work
How to get a quote that holds
Accuracy up front is worth more than negotiating after. Provide real measured dimensions and weight, the true commodity, both ends' loading capability, and your actual deadline rather than a comfortable one.