How to Read a Rate Confirmation (Line by Line)

5 min read · Free guide from Southeast Freight Dispatch

The rate confirmation isn't paperwork — it's the contract that decides whether you get paid. Read every line before the truck moves. Here's what to look for.

The money lines

• Line haul rate: the base pay. Confirm it matches what was quoted on the phone — bait-and-switch happens.
• Fuel surcharge: separate or included? If "all-in," your real rate is lower than it looks.
• Accessorials: detention rate + free time, TONU amount, lumper reimbursement. Blank = you get $0. Negotiate these BEFORE accepting.

The identity lines

• Broker name + MC: must match the broker who booked you. Mismatch = double broker. Walk away.
• Shipper/consignee + addresses: verify against what you were told. Wrong facility = wasted day.
• PO / load number: you'll need this for every check call and invoice.

The schedule lines

• Pickup/delivery dates + times: appointment vs FCFS (first come, first served). FCFS + tight delivery = detention risk.
• Commodity + weight: make sure your trailer and weight limits fit. Reefer temp goes here too — get it in writing.

The fine print

Look for: tracking requirements (macropoint/project44 — fine, but know it), "no touch" vs driver-load, lumper policies, and cancellation terms. Anything you don't understand — ask before signing, not after delivering.

The 3 checks before wheels turn

1. Rate matches the quote. Every digit.
2. Broker MC matches the broker you talked to.
3. Detention/tonu terms exist on paper, not just on the phone.

We forward every rate con to our carriers the moment it lands — and we read it first. That's the job.

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