How to Read a Freight Invoice: Every Line Item Explained

The Linehaul Charge — Your Base Rate

The linehaul rate is the base cost to move your freight from origin to destination. It is calculated based on distance, weight, equipment type, and current market conditions. This is the number you negotiate when getting a quote. Everything else on your invoice is an add-on to the linehaul.

Fuel Surcharge (FSC)

The fuel surcharge is added to the linehaul rate to account for diesel price changes. It is expressed as a percentage of the linehaul and indexed to the DOE (Department of Energy) weekly retail diesel price. In a typical market, FSC ranges from 15–30% of linehaul. IZY Logistics includes FSC in all all-in spot quotes — it will not appear as a separate line item surprise.

Detention Charges

Detention applies when a truck is held at your facility beyond the standard 2-hour free time window. The industry rate is typically $50–100 per hour. To avoid detention: have freight staged and ready before the driver arrives, have warehouse staff ready to load/unload at appointment time, and communicate any delays to IZY Logistics immediately.

Liftgate Charges

If your facility does not have a loading dock and requires a liftgate for pickup or delivery, a liftgate fee applies — typically $75–$150 each way. Always disclose liftgate requirements at the time of quoting. Surprise liftgate requests add cost and delay.

Layover, TONU, and Driver Assist Charges

Layover applies when a driver must hold a loaded trailer overnight due to facility delays or missed appointments. TONU (Truck Ordered Not Used) applies when a carrier is dispatched but the load is cancelled after booking. Driver assist applies when the driver is asked to help load or unload freight beyond cab responsibilities. All of these are avoidable with proper planning and communication.

How to Dispute a Freight Invoice Charge

If a charge appears on your invoice that was not disclosed at booking, contact IZY Logistics immediately with the load number and the specific charge in question. We will request documentation from the carrier — every accessorial charge must be supported by a signed receipt, timestamp, or carrier log. Unfounded charges are disputed and removed. You should never pay a charge you cannot verify.