FLEXIBLE BROKERAGE

Because fuel is one of the most expensive components of trucking transportation, a fuel surcharge is applied to help cover operating costs. Even when national fuel prices dip, many industries — taxi services, airlines, delivery companies, etc. — need to continue charging fuel surcharges for two main reasons:  Rates change frequently. Gas prices can change day to day, and fuel costs aren’t consistent throughout the country. 

The fuel surcharge helps balance these differences so shippers aren’t being charged too much and carriers aren’t charging too little. Diesel prices are usually higher. Even though gasoline prices may be low, that’s not always the case for diesel fuel. That’s why you may see a change in the index even when you’re paying less at the pump for gasoline.