Accessorial Charges

When you get a freight bill, the total might include more than just the cost of moving goods from point A to B. That’s where accessorial charges come in.

They’re common in shipping and can affect the final cost more than you expect.

What Are Accessorial Charges?

Accessorial charges are extra fees added for services that go beyond standard transportation. These could include things like:

1. Inside delivery

2. Liftgate usage

3. Waiting time at the dock

4. Residential delivery

5. Redelivery attempts

In short, if a shipment needs anything outside of the basic pickup and drop-off, an accessorial fee might apply.

Why Accessorial Charges Matter

It’s important to know about accessorial charges so you’re not caught off guard by unexpected costs. These fees can vary depending on the carrier and the situation.

Here’s why they matter:

1. They increase the overall shipping cost

2. They can affect your budget planning

3. They help you better compare freight quotes

When you’re managing shipping fees, understanding these extras is key to getting accurate pricing.

Common Freight Accessorials

There are several types of freight accessorials that show up often in the industry:

1. Detention: When a driver waits too long during loading or unloading

2. Sort and segregate: When freight needs to be separated by item or destination

3. Hazardous material handling: For shipments that require special care

These services are not part of the standard freight rate, so they show up as added logistics charges on your invoice.

How to Reduce Accessorial Charges

You can lower or avoid many accessorial charges with better planning. Here are a few tips:

1. Confirm delivery requirements with the receiver in advance

2. Make sure loading docks are ready when the truck arrives

3. Choose carriers that bundle services where possible

Being clear and organized helps avoid miscommunication that leads to added costs.

Final Thoughts

Accessorial charges are part of modern shipping, and understanding them helps you manage costs better.

Newl works closely with carriers and clients to help reduce these extras through better planning and communication. With us, you’re not just moving freight, you’re making every part of the process smarter and more efficient.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are accessorial charges negotiable?

Sometimes. Depending on your volume or relationship with the carrier, certain charges can be waived or reduced.

2. Do these charges apply to ground shipments only?

No. While common in ground shipping, they can also apply to air or ocean freight in certain situations.

3. How are accessorial charges billed?

They usually appear as separate line items on your freight invoice, after the main transportation cost.