# Set your own target and max pay formula for a load source

> Open Customer Setup → Customer rates, click Edit on a source, set Target pay, Max pay and an optional Large load, then Save. It applies to loads imported from then on. Reset to default puts the standard formula back.

Source: https://help.smartloads.io/set-your-own-pay-formula · Updated 2026-11-01

Each load source has a formula that sets **Target pay** (the starting rate carriers hear) and **Max pay** (the most you will pay) from the customer's invoice. Admins can replace it. Dispatchers never see invoice figures.

## Change a source's formula

1. In the left menu, under **CRM**, click **Customer Setup**, then the **Customer rates** tab.
2. Find the source and click **Edit**.
3. Under **Target pay**, pick **% of invoice** or **$ off invoice** and type the amount. Add a **min** dollar amount if you want a floor.
4. Under **Max pay**, pick **% of invoice** or **$ off invoice** and type the amount.
5. Optional, under **Large load**: enter an invoice amount in **over**, then a different target for loads above it. The max stays the same.
6. Read the example line under the boxes. It shows the result on a sample invoice, or an error to fix.
7. Click **Save**.

The row gets a **Custom** badge.

## What it changes

- Loads imported from then on use your formula.
- A load already on the board keeps its pay, unless its invoice changes.
- Pay a person edited by hand on a load wins over the formula.
- Per-ton loads are not changed by it.
- The target never goes above the max, and amounts round to the dollar.
- A saved lane margin from [Rate Review](https://help.smartloads.io/rate-review-held-loads) takes priority over the formula.

Only a source with a fixed formula can be edited. Other sources show a lock and **Read-only**.

## Copy it or go back

Under a **Custom** row:

- **Copy to all** copies the rule to the other sources and replaces their own rules. SmartLoads asks you to confirm.
- **Reset to default** puts the source back on the standard formula. SmartLoads asks you to confirm. Loads already on the board keep their pay.

## Frequently asked questions

### Can a broker who is not an admin change the formula?

No. Admins edit formulas, and the **Customer rates** tab shows for admins.

### What is the Exclusive switch on the same page?

It makes every load from that source show the Exclusive star on the board, whatever the shipper.