# Ratecast overview

Overview of Ratecast in RateView, including how to access forecasts, understand rate trends, compare historical and forecast data, and use projected rates for pricing and bidding decisions.

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Ratecast in RateView provides short- and long-term rate forecasts to support pricing decisions.

### What Ratecast Does

- Shows forecasted spot rates for the next 8 days
- Provides up to 52 weeks of forecasted rates
- Supports bid preparation for RFPs
- Helps compare pickup timing within a week

### How to Access Ratecast

1. Log in [here](https://iq.dat.com/).
2. Select **Rateview** from the left hand side menu.
3. Choose the equipment type.
4. Enter the origin and destination.
5. Click **Search**.
6. Open the Forecast tab.

You can also select **Historical** to view rate trends for the past 13 months.

### Understanding the Graph

- **Dots** represent the median forecast rate for each day.
- The **shaded area** shows the upper and lower forecast range.

Forecasts account for:

- Seasonal patterns
- Day-of-week patterns
- Business cycle patterns
- Real-time market updates (refreshed daily)

Ratecast does not predict natural disasters but adjusts as market data changes.

### Comparing Forecast and Historical Rates

When comparing:

- Historical data is shown only if a minimum number of reports is available.
- Historical rates include fuel surcharge.
- Forecast rates do not include fuel surcharge.

To compare correctly, select **Subtract Fuel Surcharge** on the right.

Confirm the market area shown in the top left before reviewing data.

### Using Ratecast for Bids

- Use the 8-day forecast for near-term spot pricing.
- Use the 52-week forecast for longer-term bids.
- For multiple lanes, request a custom report from the data analytics team.