Guides / Trucking
Fuel surcharge calculator: is the broker covering your diesel?
The linehaul rate was built on a diesel price. When diesel is higher, the surcharge is supposed to make up the difference. Check that it does.
Skip the reading. The tool does this maths for you, free, as you type.
Check a surchargeA fuel surcharge is not a bonus. It is the difference between the diesel price the rate assumed and the diesel price you are paying, times the litres you burn. If the broker's surcharge is smaller than that, the gap comes out of your rate.
The formula
Litres per km = L/100km ÷ 100. Surcharge per km = (today's diesel − base diesel) × litres per km, never below zero. Surcharge for the load = per km × loaded km. Compare with what the broker offers.
What a good number looks like
Fine. Confirm the base price they used so it stays fair.
Ask for the difference. Most brokers have room.
The broker is pocketing your fuel money. Price the load with the real surcharge or pass.
What to do about it
- Ask for the base price in every rate confirmation. If it is missing, the surcharge is a guess.
- Know your L/100km loaded. Check it against the odometer at each fill.
- Broker quoting per mile? Flip the calculator to Miles and compare like for like.
Now do it with your numbers.
Free, no account, saved on your device. The verdict comes back while you type.
Check a surcharge