Rate Group Definition (490) is used to establish or communicate a standardized grouping of rates applicable to specific transportation or service scenarios. Typically, a carrier or rate-setting authority sends this transaction to customers, brokers, or logistics partners to define how rates are organized and applied. The transaction set is often sent in response to rate inquiries or as a proactive communication to establish rate structures for a particular market or service period. Key segments include the REN (Rate Request Information) segment that specifies the fundamental rate parameters, the DK (Docket Header) segment that provides regulatory or administrative context for the rate group, and the GH (Group Header) segment that organizes the overall structure of the rate definition.

For example, a large carrier like Interstate Logistics might send a 490 transaction to its customer Midwest Distribution Centers to define a new rate group for intra-regional shipments. The REN segment would specify the rate conditions and applicability, the DK segment would reference the regulatory docket or tariff under which these rates are filed, and the GH segment would establish the grouping parameters. Optional segments such as GY (Geography) would clarify the service territory—perhaps specifying a five-state region—while CD (Shipment Conditions) would detail any weight minimums or shipment size requirements that affect the rates. The PT Loop would identify specific patrons or customers whose accounts this rate group applies to, with N4 segments pinpointing exact service locations if needed.