Negotiate Fuel Surcharges
With diesel at historic highs, negotiate higher fuel surcharges on contract or dedicated loads to offset margin loss tactic.
Fuel surcharges are designed to help carriers cover the fluctuating costs of diesel, but they often lag behind actual price spikes. Negotiating these rates beforehand can protect your profit margins when fuel prices jump unexpectedly. Consider using a fuel surcharge matrix that adjusts automatically based on the current average fuel price. This ensures fair compensation without constant renegotiation. Some shippers may be willing to negotiate higher base rates instead of fuel surcharges. Evaluate which option provides better long-term financial stability for your specific routes and contracts.
