Freight Audit and Pay (FAP) services are critical for companies managing complex shipping operations across parcel, LTL, FTL, and international freight. A strong FAP provider can reduce costs, improve financial accuracy, and provide better visibility across your logistics network. But too often, RFPs for these services fall short—focusing on basic invoice validation and missing key capabilities that have real financial and operational impact.
Here are five of the most commonly overlooked elements in Freight Audit & Pay RFPs:
1. All-Modes Coverage
Many RFPs focus on just one mode—typically parcel or LTL—without considering the need for a solution that supports all transportation modes, including truckload, ocean, air, and international. As supply chains evolve, flexibility is critical. Choosing a provider that can’t scale across modes can lead to fragmented systems and inconsistent cost control.
2. Accessorial & Surcharge Audit
Rate validation is standard, but surcharges and accessorials—like fuel, liftgate, residential delivery, or detention charges—are where billing errors often hide. If the RFP doesn’t specifically ask about granular audit capabilities for these fees, you’re likely leaving money on the table.
3. Contract & Rate Management Integration
Freight audit is only as accurate as the contract data it uses. Yet many RFPs fail to ask if the provider can manage and update complex rate structures, simulate “what-if” changes, or provide tools for contract modeling. Without this, finance and logistics teams are left working from outdated spreadsheets.
4. Finance Automation Capabilities
A strong FAP solution should go beyond audit and into financial workflow automation. That includes automated GL coding, accrual generation, and seamless integration with ERP/AP systems. RFPs often ignore this layer, missing an opportunity to eliminate manual work and speed up month-end close.
5. Rebate & Incentive Tracking
Many carriers offer rebates tied to spend thresholds, volume commitments, or service performance. Unfortunately, these incentives are difficult to monitor manually—and most RFPs don’t ask whether the provider can track earned vs. paid rebates, flag shortfalls, or alert you when you’re at risk of missing targets.
Build A Smarter Freight Audit & Pay RFP
A comprehensive Freight Audit & Pay solution should do more than just validate invoices. It should give you the tools to manage shipping costs strategically, ensure financial accuracy, and optimize carrier relationships. When drafting your next RFP, make sure you’re not just covering the basics—ask the deeper questions that uncover true value.
Need help building a smarter RFP? Download our free template here.
