Overweight / Oversize Surcharge

An overweight or oversize surcharge is assessed when a shipment's weight or dimensions exceed the carrier's published limits for standard handling. For LTL, this typically means individual pieces over 1,000 to 2,500 pounds or pallets exceeding standard dimensions (usually 48" _ 48" _ 72" or similar). For FTL, exceeding the legal gross vehicle weight of 80,000 pounds triggers permit requirements and surcharges. The fee compensates the carrier for specialized handling, equipment, and the risk of non-standard freight.

Overweight surcharges are especially common in LTL, where carriers price and handle freight based on published freight class and expected density. A pallet that weighs significantly more than its class suggests – or that requires a forklift larger than standard – disrupts terminal operations and loading plans. Carriers may refuse to handle the freight, apply a surcharge, or reclassify it at a higher rate. For oversize pieces, the issue is cubic capacity: a pallet that takes up more floor space than standard dimensions means the carrier can fit fewer shipments on the trailer, reducing their revenue per load.

For shippers, overweight and oversize charges are often avoidable with accurate product data. When the item master includes correct weights and dimensions – and the load-building process uses that data to calculate pallet configurations – the shipper can identify potential overweight issues before tendering. This means choosing the right carrier, selecting appropriate equipment, and pricing the shipment correctly the first time. Shipping without accurate weight and dimension data is one of the fastest ways to generate accessorial charges and reclassification fees across an LTL program.