What is a "Shipper Spot Rate"?

A shipper spot rate is the price a shipper pays a broker to move a load under a spot market agreement. This is a one-time, on-demand rate—not a long-term contract rate.

Why is the Shipper Spot Rate Add-On important?

Brokers often lack an industry-wide benchmark for what shippers are paying in the spot market. This makes it hard to accurately analyze sell-side margins. The add-on fills that gap by offering a consistent, independent benchmark for shipper-to-broker spot rates.

What are the main benefits?

  • Benchmarking: Compare your rates against real market averages.
  • Margin analysis: Evaluate your sell-side pricing with greater accuracy.
  • Data integration: Available via API and Snowflake for flexible access.
  • Confidence: Make pricing decisions with less guesswork and risk.

How is this different from other margin tools?

Most margin tools rely on internal or limited datasets. The DAT Shipper Spot Rate Add-On is based on the industry’s largest dataset, giving you broader and more accurate market visibility.

How do I buy it?

To purchase the Shipper Spot Rate Add-On:
  • You’ll need an active RateView Basic, Pro, or Premium subscription.
  • If you already have an API integration agreement,  and access to DAT Developer portal, your DAT Sales rep will help enable access.
  • If you don’t, you may need to add a connexion  license. Contact your DAT sales rep to get started or follow your usual process for iQ add-ons like Ratecast.

Where can I find Shipper Spot Rates within iQ Rateview?

Shipper Spot Rates can be found in the following areas within iQ Rateview:
  • Four Current Rate Cards:  If applicable based on your selected geography and time parameters.
  • Historical Rates:  Up to 13 months of historical Shipper Spot data will be available.
  • Graph Selections:  Shipper Spot rates will be an available option within both the Historical and All graphs.
  • Table Views:   Shipper Spot data will be included in relevant table displays.