Complete Guide For Load Boards

What is a Load Board?

A load board is an online platform that connects shippers and carriers in the transportation industry. Shippers post their available loads on the load board and carriers can search for and book those loads. 

Load boards are commonly used in the trucking industry and are a convenient way for shippers to find carriers and for carriers to find loads. 

Load boards typically display information about the load, such as its origin and destination, the type of freight, and the required equipment. 

Carriers can also view information about the shipper, such as their credit rating and payment history. 

Load boards can be paid or free to use, and they offer various features, such as the ability to bid on loads, track shipments, and receive alerts for new loads. 

Overall, load boards are an important tool for shippers and carriers to find each other and efficiently transport goods.

Are Load Boards Worth It?

Load boards have become an essential tool for truckers in the transportation industry. They allow carriers to find available loads quickly and easily, which can help them keep their trucks running and maximize their profits. However, some truckers are still skeptical about whether load boards are worth the investment. In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of using load boards and whether they are worth it for carriers.

Pros of Load Boards:

1. Increased Efficiency – Load boards provide a streamlined process for finding and booking loads. They eliminate the need for carriers to spend time searching for available loads and negotiating with shippers or brokers.
2. Access to More Loads – Load boards offer carriers access to a larger pool of available loads, which can increase their earning potential.
3. Real-time Information – Many load boards offer real-time updates on available loads and their status, which can help carriers make informed decisions on which loads to book.
4. Flexible Schedule – Load boards allow carriers to choose which loads they want to book, giving them the flexibility to create a schedule that works for them.
5. Cost-effective – Many load boards offer affordable pricing plans, which can save carriers money compared to other load-finding methods like using a broker.

Cons of Load Boards:

1. High Competition – Load boards can be competitive, with many carriers vying for the same loads. This can make it challenging for carriers to secure the loads they want.
2. Low Rates – Due to the competitive nature of load boards, rates can be lower than what carriers would receive by working directly with shippers or brokers.
3. No Guarantee of Quality – Load boards cannot guarantee the quality of the loads or the reliability of the shippers or brokers offering them.
4. Over-reliance – Carriers who rely solely on load boards may miss out on other opportunities or relationships that could lead to better loads and higher profits.

So, are Load Boards Worth It?

Despite the cons of using load boards, the pros often outweigh the cons. Load boards provide a cost-effective and efficient way for carriers to find loads and keep their trucks running.

While competition and lower rates may be drawbacks, carriers who are diligent and selective in their load choices can still find profitable loads.

Load boards also offer the flexibility to work when and where carriers choose, which can be a significant benefit for owner-operators.

What Is The Easiest Type of Freight To Get?

As a truck driver, finding freight to transport can be challenging at times, especially if you’re just starting out.

Some types of freight are easier to get than others, and understanding which ones they are can help you secure more loads and keep your business running smoothly. 

Here are some of the easiest types of freight for truck drivers to get:

Dry Goods

Dry goods are the most common type of freight hauled by truck drivers. They include non-perishable items such as clothing, electronics, and office supplies. These types of goods are easy to find and transport and they don’t require any special equipment or handling.

Building Materials

Building materials, such as lumber, steel, and bricks, are also in high demand and are easy to transport. They’re usually loaded onto flatbed trailers and don’t require any special handling. Construction companies and hardware stores are common sources for building material loads.

Consumer Goods

Consumer goods include products that people buy and use in their everyday lives, such as food, beverages, and household items. These types of goods are always in demand and can be found in large quantities at distribution centers and warehouses.

Medical Supplies

Medical supplies, such as medications, equipment, and supplies, are also in high demand and require specialized handling. Truck drivers who are certified to transport hazardous materials or have experience in the medical industry may have an advantage in securing these types of loads.

Electronics

Electronics, such as computers, televisions, and cell phones, are another easy type of freight to transport. They’re usually shipped in boxes and don’t require any special handling. However, they may require additional insurance coverage due to their high value.

In conclusion, the easiest types of freight for truck drivers to get are dry goods, building materials, consumer goods, medical supplies, and electronics.

While these types of freight are easier to secure, it’s important to remember that the competition for loads is always high, and building relationships with shippers and brokers is key to finding consistent work.

Additionally, as a truck driver, it’s important to have the right equipment and training to handle any type of load safely and efficiently.

How Do You Get On Load Boards?

Load boards are online platforms that connect shippers and brokers with carriers and owner-operators looking for freight to haul. 

Getting on a load board can be a great way to find consistent work and grow your business. Here are the steps to get on load boards:

• Research Load Board Options – There are many load board options available, and it’s important to research each one to determine which is the best fit for your business. Some popular load boards include DAT, Truckstop.com, and Freightquote. Look at the features, costs, and user reviews to determine which load board will meet your needs.
• Create an Account – Once you’ve selected a load board, create an account by providing your business information, such as your name, address, and USDOT number. Some load boards may also require additional information, such as insurance and references.
• Post Your Availability – Once your account is set up, post your availability and equipment information, such as the type of equipment you have, the weight capacity, and the areas you’re willing to travel to. This information will help shippers and brokers find you when they’re looking for carriers to haul their loads.
• Search for Available Loads – Load boards allow you to search for available loads based on your location, equipment type, and desired destination. Once you find a load that meets your criteria, you can submit a bid or contact the shipper or broker directly.
• Accept a Load – If your bid is accepted or you agree to the load terms with the shipper or broker, you’ll receive a confirmation and instructions on how to pick up and deliver the load. Make sure to read and understand the load details, including the rate, pick-up and delivery locations, and any special requirements.
• Complete the Load – Once you pick up the load, transport it to the designated destination, and deliver it safely and on time. Make sure to keep accurate records of the load details, including any delays or issues that arise during transportation.

In conclusion, getting on a load board can be a great way to find consistent work and grow your business as a carrier or owner-operator. 

By researching load board options, creating an account, posting your availability, searching for available loads, accepting a load, and completing the load, you can build relationships with shippers and brokers and establish a reliable stream of freight to haul.

What are the highest-paying loads?

Trucking is a lucrative career path, with the potential to earn a substantial income. However, not all loads are created equal, and some pay more than others. 

Here are some of the highest-paying loads for truckers, along with current rates for each:

Hazmat Loads

Hazmat (hazardous materials) loads require special training and equipment, and as a result, they tend to pay more than regular loads. The current rate for hazmat loads varies depending on the type of material being transported and the distance traveled. 

According to DAT Solutions, the average rate for hazmat loads in February 2023 was $2.94 per mile.

Oversized Loads

Oversized loads, such as heavy equipment and machinery, require specialized trailers and permits, and they often pay more than regular loads. The current rate for oversized loads varies depending on the weight, dimensions, and distance traveled. 

According to DAT Solutions, the average rate for flatbed oversized loads in February 2023 was $3.47 per mile.

Refrigerated Loads

Refrigerated loads, also known as reefer loads, require temperature-controlled trailers to transport perishable goods such as food and pharmaceuticals. These loads tend to pay more than regular loads due to the specialized equipment required. The current rate for refrigerated loads varies depending on the type of product being transported and the distance traveled. 

According to DAT Solutions, the average rate for reefer loads in February 2023 was $2.76 per mile.

LTL Loads

LTL (less than truckload) loads are shipments that don’t require a full truckload and are often consolidated with other shipments. LTL loads tend to pay more per mile than full truckload shipments, but the overall earnings may be lower due to the smaller size of the shipments. The current rate for LTL loads varies depending on the weight, dimensions, and distance traveled. 

According to DAT Solutions, the average rate for LTL loads in February 2023 was $2.39 per mile.

Flatbed Loads

Flatbed loads are typically used to transport heavy or oversized items, such as construction equipment, steel, and lumber. These loads tend to pay more than regular loads due to the specialized equipment required. The current rate for flatbed loads varies depending on the weight, dimensions, and distance traveled. 

According to DAT Solutions, the average rate for flatbed loads in February 2023 was $3.07 per mile.

In conclusion, hazmat, oversized, refrigerated, LTL, and flatbed loads tend to pay higher rates than regular loads. However, it’s important to remember that rates can vary depending on the type of load, the distance traveled, and market conditions.

Truckers should also consider other factors when selecting loads, such as the availability of the load and the potential for repeat business with the shipper or broker.

With careful planning and strategic load selection, truckers can maximize their earnings and build a successful career in the trucking industry.

Which Load Board is the Best?

Load boards have revolutionized the trucking industry by providing a platform for carriers to find and book loads quickly and easily. With so many load boards available in the market, it can be overwhelming for truckers to choose the right one.

In this section, we will discuss the top 10 best load boards for truckers in 2023, based on user reviews, features, and pricing.

1. DAT Solutions – DAT Solutions is a leading load board that connects shippers and carriers. It offers a variety of features, including real-time load search, instant booking, and payment processing. DAT Solutions is known for its user-friendly interface, and it offers a range of pricing plans to suit different needs.
2. Truckstop – Truckstop is one of the most popular load boards in the market. It offers a variety of features, including load search, real-time tracking, and payment processing. Truckstop also offers additional services like fuel discounts and factoring services. The platform offers a range of pricing plans to suit different needs.
3. Convoy – Convoy is a load board and logistics platform that connects shippers and carriers. It offers a variety of features, including load search, instant booking, and payment processing. Convoy is known for its competitive pricing and user-friendly interface.
4. Coyote – Coyote is a leading load board that connects shippers and carriers. It offers a variety of features, including load search, real-time tracking, and payment processing. Coyote also offers additional services like fuel discounts and factoring services. The platform offers a range of pricing plans to suit different needs.
5. 123Loadboard – 123Loadboard is a load board that connects shippers and carriers. It offers a variety of features, including load search, real-time tracking, and payment processing. 123Loadboard is known for its affordable pricing and user-friendly interface.
6. C.H. Robinson – C.H. Robinson is a load board and logistics platform that connects shippers and carriers. It offers a variety of features, including load search, instant booking, and payment processing. C.H. Robinson is known for its competitive pricing and comprehensive load-matching capabilities.
7. Landstar – Landstar is a transportation company that offers a load board for carriers and owner-operators. It offers a variety of features, including load search, real-time tracking, and payment processing. Landstar is known for its competitive pricing and user-friendly interface.
8. J.B. Hunt 360 – J.B. Hunt 360 is a load board and logistics platform that connects shippers and carriers. It offers a variety of features, including load search, instant booking, and payment processing. J.B. Hunt 360 is known for its comprehensive load-matching capabilities and user-friendly interface.
9. XPO – XPO is a transportation company that offers a load board for carriers and owner-operators. It offers a variety of features, including load search, real-time tracking, and payment processing. XPO is known for its competitive pricing and comprehensive load-matching capabilities.
10. Load Board Network – Load Board Network is a load board for carriers and owner-operators that offers access to loads from a variety of shippers and brokers. It offers a variety of features, including load search, rate negotiation, and payment processing. Load Board Network is known for its affordable pricing and user-friendly interface.

In conclusion, choosing the right load board can make a big difference in a carrier’s business. The load boards mentioned above are the top 10 best load boards for truckers in 2023, based on their features, pricing, and user reviews.

By selecting the right load board, carriers can save time and money, increase their profitability, and streamline their operations.

Are there any free load boards?

While many load boards require a subscription or membership fee, there are also some free load board options available. 

Here is an overview of some of the free load board options:

1. 123Loadboard – 123Loadboard offers a free version of its load board, which allows carriers to search for available loads and post their availability to shippers and brokers. The free version of the load board includes limited features, but carriers can upgrade to a paid membership to access additional tools and services.
2. FreeFreightSearch.com – FreeFreightSearch.com is a free load board that connects shippers and brokers with carriers and owner-operators looking for freight to haul. The platform features a user-friendly interface that allows carriers to search for available loads based on their location, equipment type, and desired destination. The load board also includes tools to help carriers manage their businesses, such as invoice creation and document storage.
3. Trulos – Trulos is a free load board that allows carriers to search for available loads and post their availability to shippers and brokers. The platform features real-time load tracking and a messaging system to communicate with shippers and brokers. Trulos also offers tools to help carriers manage their businesses, such as invoice creation and expense tracking.

Click the link for more information about free load boards.

While free load boards can be a great way to find available loads and grow your business without the added expense of a subscription or membership fee, it’s important to note that free load boards may have limited features and lower-quality loads. 

Carriers should always research load board options and evaluate the cost and benefits of each before deciding which load board to use. 

By selecting the right load board for your business, you can build relationships with shippers and brokers and establish a reliable stream of freight to haul.

Load Board Directory

• 123Loadboard – 123Loadboard is a load board for carriers, owner-operators, and brokers. The platform offers a variety of features, including advanced search options, load alerts, rate check, and load tracking. Users can also access payment and invoice management tools.
• Amazon Relay – Amazon Relay is a load board designed specifically for carriers who want to work with Amazon. The platform allows carriers to search for and book loads from Amazon, track their loads in real-time, and manage their payments and invoices.
• C.H. Robinson – C.H. Robinson is a global logistics provider that offers a load board for carriers and owner-operators. The platform features real-time load tracking, automatic payment processing, and access to C.H. Robinson’s extensive network of shippers and brokers.
• Big Road Freight – Big Road Freight is a load board for carriers and owner-operators. The platform offers a variety of features, including load search, rate negotiation, and payment processing. Users can also access a mobile app for on-the-go load management.
• ComFreight – ComFreight is a load board and logistics platform that connects shippers and carriers. The platform offers a variety of features, including load search, instant booking, and payment processing. Users can also access shipment tracking and document management tools.
• Convoy – Convoy is a digital freight network that connects shippers and carriers. The platform uses machine learning to match carriers with available loads, and offers real-time tracking and payment processing.
• Coyote – Coyote is a load board and logistics provider that connects shippers and carriers. The platform offers a variety of features, including load search, instant booking, and payment processing. Users can also access real-time tracking and document management tools.
• Direct Freight – Direct Freight is a load board for carriers and owner-operators. The platform offers a variety of features, including load search, rate negotiation, and payment processing. Users can also access shipment tracking and document management tools.
• Motive – Motive is a load board and logistics platform that connects shippers and carriers. The platform offers a variety of features, including load search, automatic booking, and payment processing. Users can also access shipment tracking and document management tools.
• NextLoad – NextLoad is a load board for carriers and owner-operators. The platform offers a variety of features, including load search, rate negotiation, and payment processing. Users can also access shipment tracking and document management tools.
• Prime Inc – Prime Inc is a transportation company that offers a load board for carriers and owner-operators. The platform offers a variety of features, including load search, real-time tracking, and payment processing.
• Sylectus – Sylectus is a transportation management system that offers a load board for carriers and owner-operators. The platform offers a variety of features, including load search, real-time tracking, and payment processing. Users can also access shipment planning and document management tools.
• Truckstop – Truckstop is a load board and logistics platform that connects shippers and carriers. The platform offers a variety of features, including load search, rate negotiation, and payment processing. Users can also access shipment tracking and document management tools.
• Truck Smarter – Truck Smarter is a load board for carriers and owner-operators. The platform offers a variety of features, including load search, rate negotiation, and payment processing. Users can also access shipment tracking and document management tools.
• Trinity – Trinity is a logistics provider that offers a load board for carriers and owner-operators. The platform offers a variety of features, including load search, real-time tracking, and payment processing. Users can also access shipment planning and document management tools.
• Trucker Path Truckloads – Trucker Path Truckloads is a load board for truckers that offers real-time access to available loads. The platform offers a variety of features, including load search, rate negotiation, and payment processing. Users can also access shipment tracking and document management tools.
• TQL Carrier Dashboard – TQL Carrier Dashboard is a load board for carriers and owner-operators that offers access to loads from Total Quality Logistics (TQL). The platform offers a variety of features, including load search, real-time tracking, and payment processing.
• DAT Solutions – DAT Solutions is a load board and logistics platform that connects shippers and carriers. The platform offers a variety of features, including load search, instant booking, and payment processing. Users can also access shipment tracking and document management tools.
• England Logistics Atlas – England Logistics Atlas is a load board for carriers and owner-operators that offers access to loads from England Logistics. The platform offers a variety of features, including load search, real-time tracking, and payment processing.
• J.B. Hunt 360 – J.B. Hunt 360 is a load board and logistics platform that connects shippers and carriers. The platform offers a variety of features, including load search, instant booking, and payment processing. Users can also access shipment tracking and document management tools.
• Landstar – Landstar is a transportation company that offers a load board for carriers and owner-operators. The platform offers a variety of features, including load search, real-time tracking, and payment processing.
• Doft – Doft is a load board and logistics platform that connects shippers and carriers. The platform offers a variety of features, including load search, instant booking, and payment processing. Users can also access shipment tracking and document management tools.
• XPO – XPO is a transportation company that offers a load board for carriers and owner-operators. The platform offers a variety of features, including load search, real-time tracking, and payment processing.
• Knight Swift – Knight Swift is a transportation company that offers a load board for carriers and owner-operators. The platform offers a variety of features, including load search, real-time tracking, and payment processing.
• Schneider FreightPower – Schneider FreightPower is a load board and logistics platform that connects shippers and carriers. The platform offers a variety of features, including load search, instant booking, and payment processing. Users can also access shipment tracking and document management tools.
• Load Board Network – Load Board Network is a load board for carriers and owner-operators that offers access to loads from a variety of shippers and brokers. The platform offers a variety of features, including load search, rate negotiation, and payment processing. Users can also access shipment tracking and document management tools.

The Bottom Line

In conclusion, load boards are worth the investment for carriers in the transportation industry. They provide access to a large pool of available loads, increase efficiency, and offer flexible scheduling. 

While there are some cons to using load boards, carriers who are selective and take the time to research their options can still find profitable loads. 

Load boards are an essential tool for carriers who want to maximize their earning potential and streamline their operations.

If you have a favorite load board or we forgot to mention one in this article, feel free to leave a comment below.

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