How to compare an LTL invoice with your quote
To compare an LTL invoice with your quote, match the invoice charges to the quoted charges line by line, then separate the differences the lines explain from the ones they don't. A difference is something to review, not proof of an error.
Gather the documents
- The quote, with its date and quote number.
- The invoice (freight bill) and its PRO number.
- The bill of lading signed at pickup.
- Your rate agreement or contract with the carrier, if you have one.
Why a quote and an invoice can differ
A quote is an estimate based on what the carrier was told about the shipment. One carrier's rules tariff, for example, says rate estimates are an approximation that binds neither the carrier nor the shipper, and that charges are assessed under the tariff in effect on the date of shipment (XPO, Tariff CNWY 199, Item 10). The same tariff says that when a party has negotiated rates or discounts, the terms of the party paying the freight charges apply (Item 4). If the weight, class or delivery conditions on the day differ from what was quoted, the invoice can differ too.
Worked example (synthetic)
| Charge | Quote | Invoice |
|---|---|---|
| Base freight | $250.00 | $295.00 |
| Fuel surcharge | $30.00 | $30.00 |
| Liftgate | — | $40.00 |
| Total | $280.00 | $365.00 |
- Fuel surcharge: matches. Nothing to review.
- Liftgate: on the invoice but not in the quote, +$40.00. If the delivery really needed a liftgate and it was not requested when quoting, the charge may be valid. Check the delivery receipt.
- Base freight: $45.00 higher. The lines alone don't say why. Check whether the weight or class on the invoice differs from the bill of lading, which would point to a reweigh or a reclassification.
The total difference is $85.00, or 30.36% of the quote, and the lines explain all of it. In a real case, the next step is to ask the carrier for the documents behind each line.
What to ask the carrier for
- The rules, rates and classification that apply to your shipment. Federal law requires a motor carrier to provide them to the shipper on request (49 U.S.C. § 13710(a)(1)).
- For a reweigh or a reclassification, the carrier's weight or inspection record. See LTL reweigh and reclassification.
- For an accessorial charge, the delivery receipt or notes that show the service was performed. See LTL accessorial charges.
Time limits
Federal law sets time limits both for contesting a freight bill and for a carrier to bill additional charges: generally 180 days from receipt of the bill (49 U.S.C. § 13710(a)(3)). 49 CFR Part 378 sets out how overcharge claims are filed and answered. These rules have exceptions, and your contract may set its own terms. This guide is not legal advice; check how they apply to your shipments with a qualified professional.
Compare your own quote and invoice with the LTL quote vs. invoice checker.
Sources
- Tariff CNWY 199-AK.2: Rules, Regulations, Rates and Charges for Accessorial Services (effective May 18, 2026). XPO Logistics Freight, Inc.. Accessed 2026-11-12.
- 49 U.S.C. § 13710 — Additional billing and collecting practices. Legal Information Institute, Cornell Law School (reproduction of the U.S. Code). Accessed 2026-11-12.
- 49 CFR Part 378 — Procedures governing the processing, investigation, and disposition of overcharge, duplicate payment, or overcollection claims. Legal Information Institute, Cornell Law School (reproduction of the Code of Federal Regulations). Accessed 2026-11-12.