enterprisecontractsnegotiation

Enterprise Shipping: Negotiating Carrier Contracts

How high-volume shippers negotiate the best carrier rates.

January 9, 20262 min read18 views
Enterprise Shipping: Negotiating Carrier Contracts

Enterprise Carrier Contract Guide

Negotiate contracts that maximize savings.

Volume Thresholds

TierAnnual SpendTypical Discount
SmallUnder $50K20-30%
Medium$50K-250K30-45%
Large$250K-1M45-60%
Enterprise$1M+60-75%

Negotiation Leverage Points

FactorImpact
Volume commitmentHigh
Multi-year termMedium
Service mixMedium
Payment termsLow
Competitive bidsVery High

Key Contract Terms

TermWhat to Negotiate
Base discountHighest possible
DIM factorHigher is better
Surcharge capsPeak, residential
Minimum chargeLower is better
Audit rightsInclude always

Rate Comparison Process

  • Document current spend by service
  • Request proposals from all carriers
  • Analyze total cost, not just discount %
  • Negotiate using competitive leverage
  • Include performance guarantees
  • Hidden Costs to Watch

    CostTypical Impact
    Residential surcharge+$4-5
    Delivery area surcharge+$3-5
    Peak surcharges+$2-6
    Address correction+$15-20
    Negotiate better rates →

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