GlossaryEN1 min readUpdated: Jun 22, 2026
Freight rate
A freight rate is the price a carrier charges for transporting goods over a defined route, expressed per unit of measurement such as tonne, cubic metre, pallet, or TEU.
Quick Answer
Last updated: Published:
Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Freight_rate
Category
Logistics Concept
Reading time
1 min
Words
109
Mentioned in
–
Definition & Explanation
A freight rate is the price a carrier charges for transporting goods over a defined route, expressed per unit of measurement such as tonne, cubic metre, pallet, or TEU. Shipping lines, airlines, and road hauliers set rates based on distance, transport mode, commodity type, seasonality, and prevailing supply-and-demand conditions. Fuel surcharges (BAF or FSC), terminal handling charges, and other accessorial fees are typically itemised separately, meaning the all-in cost can differ substantially from the base rate. Shippers and forwarders distinguish between spot rates—negotiated at current market levels—and contract rates fixed for an agreed period. Contract rates provide cost predictability but lock the shipper out of any subsequent market-rate decreases.
Next steps
Matching tools and partners
Related Terms
You might also be interested in these terms
Related News
Industry News
US Carriers Under Pressure: Diesel Prices Rise Faster Than Freight Rates
Oct 3, 20264961 min
Industry News
Cass Index: US Truckload Rates 11.3 Percent Higher in August – Shipments Show Growth for First Time in 42 Months
Sep 17, 202622022 min
Transport
Only Around 50 Percent On-Time – Yet Sea Freight Remains Expensive
Sep 8, 202629811 min
Companies
Descartes Acquires Tai for $100 Million – Dispatch Operations Set for Greater Automation
Sep 1, 202642461 min
Operational Alerts
1.7 Million TEU Shortage: Port Congestion Consuming Capacity Like a Major Shipping Line
Aug 27, 202639791 min
Operational Alerts
MSC Reroutes Seven Container Ships Through Suez and Bab el-Mandeb
Aug 19, 202654051 min
Logistics knowledge straight to your inbox
Free · No password · Never a paywall. Weekly top news and facts from logistics.
Community Questions & Answers
Share your knowledge, ask follow-up questions, or add practical insights to this page. Every contribution is moderated before publication.
No community answers yet. Be the first.