Read the rate con before you sign it, every time. The usual problems are vague accessorial terms, missing or unclear payment terms, and details that don't match what you agreed to on the phone. If something's off, ask for a corrected rate con before you roll.
It doesn't match the phone call
The broker said one thing on the phone. The rate con says something else.
Once you sign, the rate con is usually what you'll be held to, not the call. Check the rate, pickup and delivery times, addresses, commodity, weight, equipment, and any extra stops.
If anything is different, don't sign and hope it gets sorted out later. Ask for a corrected rate con in writing.
Vague detention terms
Look for when detention starts, how it's paid, and what proof they need.
Watch for words like "may be paid" or "at broker's discretion." Watch for approval steps you can't realistically get while you're sitting at the dock.
Detention often depends on the in and out times written on the bill of lading. Ask the broker what proof of time they'll accept.
Layover and TONU
Layover: is there an actual rate, or just a mention? What has to happen for it to apply?
TONU, truck ordered not used: if the load cancels after you're dispatched, does the rate con say what you'll be paid?
If the rate con doesn't spell these out, don't count on getting paid for them unless the broker agrees in writing.
Lumper charges
Who pays the lumper? If you pay, how do you get reimbursed, and what receipt do they want?
Watch for reimbursement rules that need an approval code or receipt format you won't have at the dock.
Missing or unclear payment terms
The rate con should say when you get paid and what paperwork starts that clock. If it doesn't say, ask before you haul.
Read the fine print for deductions too: charges for late delivery, deadlines for sending paperwork, or fees for quick pay. Know what can come out of your rate before you agree to it.
Related guide: Owner-operator invoice checklist
What to do when you spot one
Ask the broker to fix it before you sign. A corrected rate con is best. An email confirming the change is better than nothing. Keep it.
If they won't fix it, you get to decide whether the load is still worth it on those terms.
How Lumen handles this
Lumen reads the rate con with you, before you're committed to it.
- Forward the rate con to ratecon@lumenfreight.com. Lumen reads the rate con, flags vague terms, and shows how the rate compares to what similar loads actually paid.
- Later, Lumen builds your invoice from that same rate con, so what you bill matches what you agreed to.
- If the invoice goes unpaid, at day 30 Lumen marks it Overdue and drafts a demand letter. Nothing sends until you confirm it.
- Lumen is free right now.