A fuel surcharge can be shown separately from linehaul or included in an overall freight price. The percentage alone does not tell you which quote costs less. First identify how each provider calculates the charge and which parts of the shipment price it applies to.

Ask whether fuel is included

Request a clear statement showing whether the quoted transportation amount includes fuel. If it does not, ask for the applicable calculation and an estimated total for the planned shipping date.

Confirm any other charges separately. The term “all-in” should be explained in the quote rather than assumed to cover every possible waiting, handling, or service change.

Identify the calculation basis

A provider may use a percentage, a per-mile method, or another agreed formula. Ask which base amount or mileage is used, the referenced index if applicable, and the effective period.

Carrier practices differ. FedEx Freight, for example, publishes fuel surcharge information by effective date. That is an example of one provider’s approach, not a universal schedule for all trucking.

Compare the resulting amounts

As a hypothetical illustration, $1,000 of linehaul plus a 20% charge applied only to that linehaul totals $1,200. A $1,150 quote with fuel included would be lower if every other service assumption were identical.

Those figures demonstrate arithmetic, not current market pricing. Always compare the actual scope, equipment, timing, and additional-charge terms along with the calculated total.

Check the date used for billing

Ask which event determines the applicable fuel amount and whether a delayed shipping date can change it. For recurring lanes, document the review method and how changes are communicated.

When requesting quotes, provide the same planned date and service requirements to each provider. Keep the accepted calculation with the booking so the invoice can be reconciled to the agreed terms.

Reference: FedEx Freight fuel surcharge information.

Related shipping guides

Dry Van Truckload Quotes: How to Compare the Full Shipping Cost
Flatbed Shipping Rates: What Affects Your Quote and What to Send

Plan your shipment with 2A Logistics

Request a freight quote from 2A Logistics with fuel treatment and service assumptions clearly identified.

Request a Freight Quote or call 260-408-6809.