Indexing FAQ

The questions we hear most about index-linked contracts in Xeneta.

How often does my indexed rate update?

As often as your adjustment frequency allows, set when you build the contract. Monthly is the most common choice because it balances staying close to the market with keeping administration simple. The new rate takes effect on your chosen calculation day.

What does "average over period" mean exactly?

It means the rate is the average index value across a defined window, rather than the value on a single day. The window runs up to the calculation day. So with a one-month period and a calculation day of the 20th, the rate is the average from the 20th of the previous month to the 20th of the current month. If you choose rate on day instead, the contract simply uses the index value on the calculation day.

What is included in the indexed rate?

The base ocean rate plus the surcharges defined in Xeneta's standard, platform-wide methodology. Anything outside that methodology stays a separate commercial agreement. See what's included in an indexed rate for the detail.

Why are North America terminal handling charges not shown separately?

For North American port pairs, THCs are already included within the rates shown in the platform, so Origin THC values are not displayed separately. This keeps indexed rates aligned with the rates you see across Market Analytics and Integrated Rate Management.

Can I limit how much my rate moves?

Yes. Use guardrails to set a floor and a ceiling, so the rate never falls below or rises above agreed limits, regardless of index movements. You can also set a minimum adjustment trigger so small index moves do not change the rate at all.

Which index should I choose?

One that reflects your actual corridors and container types, is updated frequently, is transparent and neutral, and has enough historical data to back-test. See the Xeneta indices.

Do I have to index all my lanes at once?

No. A common approach is to index a few representative lanes first, prove it works, and keep using Xeneta's other tools for traditional tendering on the rest.

Is the surcharge and THC methodology configurable?

No. It is fixed and applied platform-wide so that index updates stay transparent and comparable for everyone. The contract parameters (frequency, calculation method, guardrails, discount or premium) are configurable; surcharge and THC treatment is not.

How is this different from a fixed-rate contract?

A fixed rate is locked for the term and can drift away from the market, prompting renegotiation or rolled cargo. An index-linked rate stays aligned with the market, which keeps pricing fair, reduces renegotiation, and protects the supply chain. See what is an index-linked contract.

Does Xeneta let me trade freight futures?

No. Xeneta provides the neutral data and education around indexing and derivatives, but does not sell or intermediate financial products. Trading and clearing happen through a bank, broker, or Euronext directly. See hedging and derivatives.