INSIGHT INTO FUEL COSTS
Diesel surcharge explained: impact on transport costs and logistics rates
What is the diesel surcharge for this month?
The diesel surcharge is a variable surcharge that carriers apply to absorb fluctuations in fuel prices. This surcharge is adjusted periodically and directly affects your transport costs. In March/April, the diesel surcharge is 39%. This percentage is calculated on the basis of current diesel prices and agreed indexes. By communicating transparently about the diesel surcharge, TOP ensures clarity, predictability and fair rates within your logistics chain for customers and partners at home and abroad during all forms of transport throughout the year.
Why is there a diesel surcharge?
The diesel surcharge on road transport is based on current fuel prices. Here, transporters apply a fixed base diesel price, with increases above that being converted into a surcharge percentage. This percentage is adjusted periodically based on a diesel index and directly reflects developments in the market. This stems from persistently high diesel prices. This surcharge is passed on by transporters and charged by TOP on a one-to-one basis, with no mark-up.
History of diesel surcharge
The diesel surcharge has increased markedly in recent weeks. Below is the trend of the surcharge in March.
