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Guides  /  Carrier Contracts  /  The General Rate Increase, explained
Guide

The General Rate Increase, explained.

Why the headline number understates your increase.

Every year carriers announce a General Rate Increase. The headline percentage is an average, and your real increase is usually higher.

Model my GRI impact

What the GRI is

The GRI is the annual increase carriers apply to published rates and surcharges, typically announced in the fall and effective in late December or January.

Why the headline understates it

The announced percentage is an average across services. Surcharge and accessorial increases often outpace it, so your blended, effective increase is usually higher than the number in the press release.

How to get ahead of it

Model the increase against your specific service mix and zones before it lands. That tells you your true number and gives you lead time to renegotiate.

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Frequently asked

When does the GRI take effect?

Carriers typically announce the General Rate Increase in the fall, with it taking effect in late December or January.

Is my real GRI different from the announced rate?

Almost always. The headline is an average; your effective increase depends on your mix, zones, and surcharge exposure, and is usually higher.

Know your real GRI before it hits

We model the increase on your shipments.

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