What Is Rate Confirmation (Rate Con) in Trucking?
Also called: Rate Con, RateCon
A rate confirmation (rate con) is the written deal for one load. It is the contract between the carrier and the broker. It sets the pay, the pickup and delivery details and the terms. Once you sign it, you accept all of it, so read it before you dispatch the truck.
Last reviewed September 23, 2026 · Facts checked October 15, 2026
Key Points
- A rate con locks in the pay and the terms for one load. Once you sign it, it is binding
- Make sure the rate matches what you agreed to on the phone
- If a fee is not written on the rate con, do not count on it. This includes detention, layover, TONU and lumper fees
- Check the free time, the payment terms and the paperwork you must send to get paid
- Verify the broker's MC number, phone number and email before you sign. Scammers send fake rate cons
- A broker must keep a record of each load, including what the broker was paid and when it paid the carrier. Each party to the transaction has the right to review that record, and it must be kept for three years (49 CFR 371.3)
Rate confirmation vs. bill of lading
| Rate Confirmation | Bill of Lading | |
|---|---|---|
| What it is | The pay contract for one load | The receipt and shipping record for the freight |
| Who it is between | The broker (or shipper) and the carrier | The shipper, the carrier and the receiver |
| When you get it | Before you pick up the load | At pickup, and signed again at delivery |
| What it shows | Rate, stops, times, fees and payment terms | What was loaded: pieces, weight, description and condition |
| How it helps you get paid | Shows what you are owed | The signed copy is usually your proof of delivery |
What should be on a rate confirmation?
A good rate con shows the total carrier pay, the load number, and who the broker, carrier, shipper and receiver are. It lists the pickup and delivery addresses with dates and appointment times, plus the weight, the miles and the equipment type. It states how you are paid (per mile or flat), when you are paid, and which fees are covered, such as detention, layover, fuel surcharge and lumper. It also has cancellation and dispute terms.
What should you check before you sign?
First, compare the rate to what you agreed on the phone. Second, see whether the rate is linehaul only or all-in, and if fuel is separate, how the fuel surcharge is figured. Third, find every extra fee in writing. Fourth, check the free time and when detention starts. Fifth, read the payment terms and what paperwork they need, such as the signed BOL. Sixth, confirm the broker. Check the MC number, call the phone number on file and look closely at the email address. Be careful with free email accounts. Last, keep a signed copy of every rate con.
How is a rate con different from a bill of lading?
They do different jobs. The rate con is the pay contract. The bill of lading is the shipping paper that shows what freight moved. You usually need both to get paid. The table below shows the main differences.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is a rate confirmation in trucking?+
A rate confirmation, or rate con, is the written contract for a single load between the carrier and the broker. It sets the pay, the stops, the times and the terms. Once you sign it, you accept those terms.
Do I have to sign a rate confirmation?+
You should. A signed rate con is the proof of what was agreed. Some brokers will pay without a signature, but if there is a dispute, a missing signature can hurt you. Do not move the load until the rate con is correct.
Can a broker change the rate after I sign?+
Not on their own. Once signed, the rate stands unless both sides agree to a change. If the plan changes, ask for a new or corrected rate con in writing before you move the load.
Can I see what the broker was paid for my load?+
Yes, in a way. Under 49 CFR 371.3, a broker must keep a record of each transaction. It shows the amount the broker received for the brokerage service and who paid it, and the date the broker paid the carrier. Each party to the transaction has the right to review that record, and the broker must keep it for three years. If you want to see it, ask in writing and cite the rule.
What should I look for on a rate con?+
Check the pay, the stops and times, the free time, who pays detention, layover and lumper fees, the payment terms and the paperwork you must send. Also confirm the broker is real by checking the MC number and calling the phone number on file.
More trucking terms
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This is industry terminology and typical practice. It is not legal or tax advice. Rates, fees, and rules mentioned are general ranges. Confirm the details on your rate confirmation, carrier agreement, or a current official source.