Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: CIF • Proof of Delivery • Intermodal

Accessorials

Term from Logistics industry explained for recruiters

Accessorials are additional charges or fees in shipping and logistics that go beyond the basic transportation cost. Think of them as "extra services" that may be needed during shipping, like fuel surcharges, inside delivery, liftgate services, or residential delivery fees. When you see this term on a resume, it usually means the person has experience handling these special shipping requirements and their associated costs. This knowledge is important because it affects pricing, customer service, and overall shipping operations.

Examples in Resumes

Managed accessorials and surcharges for a fleet of 50+ trucks, reducing billing errors by 30%

Developed standardized pricing structure for accessorial charges across multiple shipping lanes

Trained customer service team on proper application of accessorial fees and charges

Typical job title: "Logistics Coordinators"

Also try searching for:

Freight Coordinator Transportation Manager Logistics Specialist Shipping Coordinator Rate Specialist Billing Coordinator Operations Manager

Where to Find Logistics Coordinators

Professional Associations

Online Communities

Job Boards

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you develop a strategy to optimize accessorial charges across multiple shipping lanes?

Expected Answer: A strong answer should discuss analyzing historical data, negotiating with carriers, standardizing pricing, and implementing clear policies while considering customer impact and market rates.

Q: How have you handled disputes regarding accessorial charges with major clients?

Expected Answer: Look for experience in conflict resolution, documentation practices, policy enforcement, and maintaining customer relationships while protecting company interests.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What are common accessorial charges and when are they applicable?

Expected Answer: Should be able to list major types like liftgate, inside delivery, residential delivery, fuel surcharges, and explain typical scenarios when each applies.

Q: How do you ensure accurate billing of accessorial charges?

Expected Answer: Should discuss verification processes, documentation requirements, communication with drivers and customers, and systems used to track charges.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What is an accessorial charge?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain that these are additional fees beyond basic shipping costs for extra services like liftgate use or inside delivery.

Q: How do you document accessorial charges?

Expected Answer: Should mention basic documentation procedures, such as noting requirements on bills of lading and getting customer signatures for additional services.