But there are certain immutable facts that make me think a fuel surcharge, mandated by the Surface Transportation Board, is right for trucking and right for the economy. Within a few pennies, truckers of all sizes are buying fuel at the same cost. Fuel constitutes a major component of the expenses of all truckers. Small carriers make up a substantial portion of the distribution system and are a source of competition that makes trucking a bargain. Smaller carriers, particularly ones using brokers, cannot get surcharges.
Bigger carriers spend enormous time and energy attempting to get surcharges, with mixed results.
Without some long-term solution to the problems that are created by the volatility of the supply of crude oil, truckers lack the ability to survive for long. We need long-term solutions. All are laudable notions. But they leave me short. Carriers must charge it and shippers must pay it.