How do you manage fuel surcharges in AscendTMS?

• A. Rely on a flat surcharge across all shipments.
• B. Configure fuel surcharge in rate cards, or apply variable fuel surcharge using fuel index; ensure surcharge is applied to relevant loads.
• C. Fuel surcharges are determined by the shipper's credit score.
• D. Fuel surcharges are prohibited in AscendTMS.

Answer: (B)

Fuel surcharges in AscendTMS are best managed by configuring them in rate cards or by applying a variable surcharge tied to a fuel index, and making sure the surcharge is applied to the loads that should incur it. Embedding a fixed surcharge in rate cards lets you lock in predictable pricing for specific lanes or service levels, which helps with budgeting and quoting. Using a fuel index creates a dynamic surcharge that tracks actual fuel prices, ensuring the charges follow real-world costs and keeping revenue aligned with fuel market changes. To keep charges accurate, set rules so the surcharge only applies to the loads or lanes that require it, rather than every shipment, and align it with the appropriate carriers or service levels. In contrast, a flat surcharge across all shipments ignores lane differences and fuel volatility, the shipper’s credit score does not determine fuel costs, and fuel surcharges are allowed in AscendTMS.