Logistics providers send quotes before moving freight or starting a storage or delivery arrangement. Shippers often compare several carriers or brokers on the same lane, so the quote has to be clear about what is included. Quotes are commonly a per-load rate, a lane rate valid for a period, or a per-pallet and per-order schedule for warehousing.
When to use estimates: Use estimates to provide project quotes and get client approval before starting work. Once approved, convert your estimate to an invoice with one click to collect payment.
Create an invoice for payment collection
Upload logo
PDF will be generated with filename:
Invoice_1001_Client_2026-10-14.pdf
Distance and timing drive the price, and a changed address or window can change the cost.
Rates depend on these, and a wrong weight or class leads to reweigh or reclass charges.
Dry van, reefer, flatbed, or box truck have different costs, and temperature control or hazmat adds requirements and fees.
Liftgate, inside delivery, residential delivery, and appointment scheduling are common sources of surprise charges.
Sets how long the driver will wait at no cost and what the hourly charge is after that.
Shows how the surcharge is calculated so the customer is not surprised when fuel prices change.
Market rates change quickly, and the customer should know the cargo liability limit and whether added coverage is available.
| Service | Priced | Typical range |
|---|---|---|
| Dry van truckload (line haul) | per mile | $2.00-3.00 |
| Local or regional box truck delivery | per hour | $75-125 |
| Last-mile delivery | per stop | $6-20 |
| Pallet storage (warehousing) | per pallet per month | $15-35 |
| Pick and pack fulfillment | per order | $2.50-6.00 |
| Detention (after 2 hours free time) | per hour | $40-75 |
| Liftgate or inside delivery | per shipment | $50-150 |
| Freight brokerage margin | percent of load | 10-20% |
Typical US ranges. Rates vary by region, experience, and job size.
Know your cost per mile, driver pay, insurance, and deadhead before quoting. For brokers, check carrier cost first and add a margin that covers payment terms and claims risk.
For repeat shippers, offer a lane rate for a set number of loads per month. It gives the customer predictability and gives you steady work.
Attach a short schedule showing detention, liftgate, redelivery, and storage prices. Customers can accept these up front instead of arguing about them later.
Spot rates move daily. A quote good for 24 to 72 hours, or 30 days for contract lanes, protects you from a market change.
A written quote that the customer accepts, usually through a signed rate confirmation, is generally treated as the agreed price. State the expiration date and conditions so changes in freight details can adjust the price.
Include a clause that the rate is based on the stated weight and dimensions and that changes will be re-rated. Ask for a scale ticket or BOL weight to support any adjustment.
Both are used. All-in rates are simpler for customers to compare, while a separate fuel line protects you if diesel prices move. Pick one and state it clearly.
Thirty days is common. Include the minimum monthly charge, the storage and handling rates, and any setup fees so the customer can compare it with other providers.
Use the Logistics invoice template to bill the client, or convert this estimate once it's approved.
Logistics invoice template