Freight Accessorial Fees and How to Avoid Them
Freight quotes often exclude accessorials such as residential delivery, no loading dock, liftgate, inside delivery, appointments, detention and fuel. Put the address type, loading capability and liftgate need in the quote request to avoid a bigger invoice later.
Common accessorials
Residential or limited-access locations.
Liftgate, inside delivery and upstairs delivery.
Detention, appointments, address changes and re-delivery.
Fuel surcharges adjusted weekly or monthly by the carrier.
Before booking
Confirm dock and forklift availability.
Measure door widths, elevators and access before delivery day.
Get accessorials in the written quote and keep the record.
FAQ
Can the liftgate fee be waived?
With a dock or forklift the liftgate is often unnecessary; confirm site capability first.
How is the fuel surcharge calculated?
A carrier-published percentage applied to the base rate, adjusted with fuel prices.