Independent Action
An Independent Action is when a carrier that is a rate bureau member publishes a rate that differs from the rate the rate bureau publishes. This can be done for a number of reasons, such as:
- to meet specific customer needs,
- to gain a competitive edge in the market.
Carriers that are not members of a rate bureau may also take Independent Actions, but they are not subject to the same rules and regulations.
Rate bureaus are organizations that help keep the shipping industry fair by publishing rates and regulations. They also provide a forum for carriers to negotiate rates. There are a number of different rate bureaus in the United States, each with its own set of rules and regulations.