Rate confirmation

A rate confirmation, or rate con, is the document a freight broker sends a carrier to confirm a load: pickup and delivery details, the agreed rate, and the terms. Once signed, it is a contract for that shipment, and it often references a broader carrier agreement whose terms also apply.

Beyond the rate, the rate con usually states whether fuel is included or separate, which accessorial charges are allowed and whether they need written pre-approval, the payment terms and what paperwork starts the payment clock, and any penalties for late delivery or tracking gaps. Those lines decide how much is actually collected and when, so experienced dispatchers read the whole page before accepting.