Have the actual Rate Con?
Upload it and check the money terms in the document itself.
What a Rate Con usually contains
A typical Rate Con identifies the broker and carrier, load number, commodity, equipment, pickup and delivery appointments, agreed rate, and any load-specific instructions. It may also include detention, TONU, layover, lumper reimbursement, tracking, check-call and paperwork rules.
Why the fine print matters
The big rate at the top is only part of the deal. A load can look profitable until a late-POD deduction, tracking requirement, tight appointment, or missing detention language changes the math. Treat every stated deduction and submission deadline as part of the rate.
The money terms to check first
Start with the total rate, then scan for detention free time and hourly rate, TONU, layover, lumper reimbursement, extra-stop pay, quick-pay fees and any fixed deductions. If an accessorial is not stated, do not assume the document promises it.
The operational terms to check next
Look for appointment type, tracking requirements, check calls, required reference numbers, POD/BOL submission method, deadlines, and any instruction that says payment may be delayed or reduced if paperwork is missing.
Before you sign
If a money term is unclear, ask the broker to clarify it in writing before the truck moves. The useful question is not just “What does your company normally pay?” but “What does this load document say, and what proof does it require?”
Frequently asked questions
Is a Rate Confirmation the same as the broker-carrier agreement?
Not necessarily. A broker-carrier agreement can set broader relationship terms, while the Rate Con usually covers one specific load. Read both when a clause in one document points to the other.
What should an owner-operator check first?
Start with total rate, pickup and delivery appointments, detention, TONU, layover, lumper rules, deductions, tracking, and the POD submission deadline.
What if detention is not listed?
Do not assume a standard rate. Ask the broker to put the detention terms for that load in writing.
Have the actual Rate Con?
Upload it and check the money terms in the document itself.