FreightNerd

STEP 3 OF 4 · FREE FREIGHT COST TOOL

Accessorial Charges Calculator for LTL & Freight

Estimate common freight accessorials such as liftgate, residential delivery, inside delivery, detention, storage, limited access, hazmat and fuel surcharge.

Planning only: Accessorial charges vary by carrier, tariff, contract, lane and shipment conditions. Verify exact charges before quoting, billing or booking.

Estimate Accessorials

Hidden fees and extra service charges

Used for context only in this static estimator.

Select Accessorials

NEXT STEP · STEP 4 OF 4

Run the quote risk score

After RPM, fuel and accessorials, stress-test the quote against market rate, deadhead and fuel movement.

Next: Quote Risk

What are accessorial charges?

Accessorial charges are extra freight fees for services or conditions outside the standard linehaul move. These charges often appear when a shipment needs special equipment, extra labor, waiting time, non-standard delivery, or extra handling.

Accessorials matter because they can turn a profitable-looking quote into a weak load. They should be checked before final rate per mile, margin or quote risk decisions.

Cost Formula

Total freight = base freight + accessorials
Accessorial impact % = accessorials ÷ base freight

Common freight accessorials

Liftgate

Applies when pickup or delivery needs a liftgate truck.

Residential

Added when delivery is to a home or non-commercial location.

Detention

Waiting time beyond the free time allowed by the carrier.

Limited access

Schools, farms, construction sites, military bases and similar locations.

Accessorial Charges FAQ

What is an accessorial charge in freight?

It is an extra charge for a service or condition beyond normal pickup, linehaul and delivery.

Why are accessorials dangerous for margin?

They are often missed during quoting. If you do not pass them through or price them in, they reduce profit.

Are liftgate and residential delivery accessorials?

Yes. Both are common accessorials, especially in LTL freight.

Can accessorials be negotiated?

Sometimes. It depends on carrier agreement, customer terms, shipment profile and volume.

View Full WorkflowBack: Fuel SurchargeNext: Quote Risk