The base linehaul rate is rarely your final cost. Here’s a plain-English breakdown of the accessorial line items you’ll see on freight invoices, and how to control them.
Fuel Surcharge (FSC)
A per-mile or percentage charge that adjusts with diesel prices. Most brokers reference the DOE national average updated weekly. A typical FSC formula: $0.30/mile when DOE diesel is $4.00/gal, +$0.05 for every $0.10 over baseline. Always ask for the formula in writing on long-term contracts.
Detention
Compensation for the driver waiting beyond “free time” at the dock — typically 2 hours free at pickup and 2 hours free at delivery. After that, $50–$100/hour is industry standard, billed in 15-min or 1-hour increments. Tip: Get appointments confirmed in writing and treat unloading as a priority.
Layover
When detention runs into a 10-hour DOT rest break or the next day, it becomes a layover — typically $250–$400/day. Common when you book a Friday pickup and the receiver isn’t open Saturday.
TONU (Truck Order Not Used)
If you cancel a load after dispatch, you owe a TONU fee — typically $150–$300. Cancel before dispatch and most brokers waive it. Document cancellation reasons in writing.
Lumper
A third-party loading/unloading service, common at grocery distribution centers. Driver pays the lumper at delivery and is reimbursed by the broker, who passes it through to you. Range: $80–$300+ depending on pallet count.
Liftgate / Inside Delivery / Residential
Standard accessorials when delivering to homes or sites without a dock. Liftgate adds $75–$150, residential $50–$100, inside delivery $100–$250 depending on freight size.
Reweigh / Reclass
If your stated weight or freight class is wrong, the carrier reweighs and reclasses, then bills the difference. This is the #1 source of LTL invoice surprises. Always weigh on a certified scale before booking.
Skyline’s Promise
Every quote we send is “all-in” — fuel surcharge already baked in. We disclose all expected accessorials before you book. No surprise invoices. Get an honest quote.