Avoid surprise fees and ship with confidence
Many shipments require services that fall outside of standard pickup and delivery. And each of those services comes with an extra fee. These are known as accessorial charges, and they can play a big role in how much you pay to ship freight.
Keep reading to learn about the most common accessorial charges in both full truckload and less-than-truckload shipping and how to avoid surprise charges on your next freight invoice.
Common truckload accessorial charges
Truckload accessorial charges are often caused by driver detention or the need for special equipment.
Detention
Driver detention applies when a driver is held beyond the allotted loading or unloading time. Most carriers include a standard window, after which detention fees begin.
Layover
If a driver cannot complete delivery due to scheduling or facility delays and must wait overnight, a layover charge may apply.
Stop-offs
Shipments with multiple pickup or delivery locations incur stop-off fees for each additional stop.
Driver assist
If a driver is required to help load or unload freight, this service may result in an added charge.
Specialized equipment
Using equipment like flatbeds or refrigerated trailers can introduce additional costs.
Learn more about full truckload shipping.
Common LTL accessorial charges
LTL accessorial charges are typically tied to location type, handling needs or shipment characteristics.
Liftgate service
Required when freight must be moved between the truck and ground level without a dock. This is one of the most common non-optional accessorial charges.
Residential delivery
Deliveries to homes or non-commercial locations often include additional fees due to route and time considerations.
Limited access locations
Schools, construction sites, military bases and similar locations may require extra coordination and incur accessorial charges.
Inside delivery
If freight must be moved beyond the receiving area, such as into a building or specific room, this service is charged separately.
Reclassification or reweigh
If the shipment’s weight or freight class is incorrect, adjustments can result in additional charges.
Appointment services
Some deliveries require advance notice or appointment scheduling, which can also carry fees.
FAQs about accessorials
What are accessorials?
Accessorials are additional services that go beyond standard dock-to-dock transportation. They come into play when a shipment needs something extra, like liftgate service, residential delivery or inside delivery.
Are the charges optional?
Sometimes, but not always. In many cases, accessorials are required based on the shipment or delivery location. If a specific service is needed to complete the delivery, the charge isn’t optional.
What happens if an accessorial isn’t identified ahead of time?
If it’s missed during booking, the carrier may arrive without the right equipment or instructions. That can lead to delays, reattempts and added charges to cover the service after the fact.
How do I know if I’ve been charged for one?
Accessorials are usually listed as separate line items on your freight invoice. A quick comparison with your booking details and bill of lading can help you spot anything unexpected.
Can accessorial charges be reduced or avoided?
If you ship regularly or have consistent volume, you may be able to work with your carrier or logistics provider to set agreed-upon rates for certain accessorials ahead of time.
Even without negotiated terms, sharing accurate shipment details and confirming location requirements upfront helps ensure only the necessary services are applied and reduces the risk of unexpected charges.
What’s the best way to avoid billing surprises?
Providing complete shipment information, confirming location details and communicating any special requirements early will help keep your costs predictable.
Get the shipping services you need from ArcBest
Accessorial charges are a normal part of freight shipping, but they shouldn’t be confusing. With the right partner, you can better anticipate when they apply and why.
ArcBest helps you navigate the details, apply the right services upfront and stay one step ahead with the support and solutions built for your supply chain.