In the freight industry, an owner-operator for semi-trucks is a self-employed truck driver who owns and operates their own commercial vehicle rather than working directly for a trucking company.
Being an owner-operator means that these individuals are responsible for not only driving their vehicle but also managing the business side of their operation. This includes maintenance, insurance, fuel costs, taxes, and compliances with federal and state regulations.
Some owner-operators work under lease agreements with larger carriers, while others operate under their own authority and contract directly with shippers or brokers to haul freight.
Regardless of their setup, owner-operators need loads as they directly impact income and profitability. After all, they can only make money by moving freight. By consistently securing well-paying loads, they can cover operational costs and turn a profit.
The ability to find high-paying loads quickly can also mean the difference between a successful month and one that barely breaks even. And in today’s competitive market, securing profitable loads takes more than just signing up on a load board. So in this article, One Freight Broker is going to discuss how you can get loads for your semi truck.
How to Get Loads for Semi Truck
With that out of the way, we can discuss the various strategies you can use to get more loads for your semi-truck. At first this may seem difficult or overwhelming, but luckily there are now several tools available for you to utilize.
Today, owner-operators and even small fleet owners have more control than ever over how they find and book freight. Whether you’re new to the business or just looking to streamline your current process, leveraging the right mix of technology, relationships, and business practices can ensure a steady flow of work in this highly-competitive and fast-paced industry.
Using Load Boards Effectively
Load boards are the first and most common tool people use when looking for loads in the freight industry. These are online platforms where freight brokers, shippers, and carriers can connect and arrange transport for goods.
For semi-truck drivers and owner-operators, load boards serve as a marketplace to find available loads that match their route, equipment type, and schedule. These platforms often feature filters to help narrow down searches by weight, distance, rate-per-mile, and pickup or delivery location. Many also provide broker credit scores and days-to-pay data, which can help drivers avoid unreliable partners.
Popular Load Boards Include:
- DAT Load Board – One of the oldest and most trusted platforms.
- Truckstop.com – Great for both beginners and experienced drivers.
- 123Loadboard – Affordable option with useful filters.
- Uber Freight & Convoy – App-based load boards with automated booking.
To use load boards effectively, the first thing owner-operators need to do is create a complete and professional profile. Keeping this profile active means updating your availability and responding quickly to posted loads that match your criteria.
To take this to the next level, you can even use multiple load boards and set alerts for preferred routes so you can cast a wider net.
Partnering with Freight Brokers
As your business grows, you may want to cut out the middleman so you could earn more per load. But if you are only starting out and finding loads for your semi truck is tough, you can always work with professional intermediaries called freight brokers.
Also known as logistics brokers, these are the matchmakers of the freight industry, connecting shippers with the carriers who have the capacity to move their goods.
For semi truck owners and operators, working with brokers can be a convenient way to keep your truck moving without having to spend time cold-calling shippers or negotiating deals. Brokers typically post loads on online load boards, but the best ones already have well-established networks that allow them to match carriers with suitable loads almost instantly.
The best part about working with a broker is that they handle everything, including paperwork, payment processing, and even route planning. They do more than just fulfill their matchmaker role. They are called logistics brokers because they make sure the entire shipping process goes smoothly.
In fact, if there are problems during transit, they are also the ones who coordinate between the two parties, keeping the lines of communication open, and coming up with alternative solutions.
This system can be especially helpful for new carriers or independent owner-operators who are still building a network and reputation. Working with a reliable freight brokerage allows them to put more focus on the core operation of their trucking business, which is providing transportation solutions.
Working Directly with Shippers
As we mentioned above, semi truck owners who wish to grow their business eventually find ways to cut out the middleman. You can try that yourself by bypassing brokers and forming direct relationships with companies that need freight transported.
This approach often leads to better profit margins because you eliminate the broker’s cut. It also allows for long-term contracts and more predictable work, which is ideal for truckers looking to establish a stable and repeatable route.
Many large companies, manufacturers, and distribution centers are open to working with reliable carriers, especially if you can offer flexibility, excellent service, or serve hard-to-reach areas.
Keep in mind that building these relationships may take time and effort. However, the long-term benefits are certainly worth it.
Dispatch Services: Are They Worth It?
Another option if you want to just focus on driving instead of negotiating loads or managing paperwork is to use dispatch services. A good dispatcher will help you find profitable freight, negotiate rates, and handle booking, often in exchange for a percentage of each load.
While the cost may seem high to some, the time saved and potentially higher-paying freight can make it worthwhile. Just like with brokers, it’s important to work with reputable services and evaluate whether the value they provide justifies the expense.
Leveraging Social Media and Online Communities
Another great way to start building your network is to utilize social media. In this digital age, you are missing out if you are not taking advantage of these incredibly popular platforms.
Social media platforms and trucking forums offer more than entertainment—they’re also a great way to find freight opportunities. You can use Facebook groups, LinkedIn networks, and apps like TruckSmarter and DAT One to find shippers looking for carriers.
You can even stay updated on rate trends, new scams to avoid, and new tools to use so you can stay ahead of the game. Building a professional presence online can open doors to freight connections you might not find elsewhere.
Work with One Freight Broker
Finding loads for your semi truck is part art, part hustle, and part strategy. It takes time to build a steady flow of work, but with persistence, you’ll eventually rely less on load boards and more on repeat customers and direct contracts.
In the end, it’s all about consistency, reliability, and professionalism. That is what sets successful truckers apart from the rest. If you treat every load like a long-term opportunity, you’ll have no trouble keeping those wheels turning.
For those who are looking for reliable freight transportation services, you can work with One Freight Broker.
One Freight Broker is unique compared to other brokers because we actually encourage our clients to build direct, beneficial, and enduring connections with dependable trucking allies. We reduce their dependence on intermediaries to reduce their shipping costs. This inclusive approach is the reason why we are now the go-to choice for shippers everywhere.
Since our founding in 2013, we have built a positive reputation with our wide service range that includes LTL, FTL, domestic, international, and expedited shipping. Whatever you need, we can cover it—and we provide an unprecedented depth of strategic insight while doing so.
When you partner with One Freight Broker, you gain access to a vast network of carriers, competitive rates, and a team of experts dedicated to optimizing your shipping process. Whether you’re shipping domestically or require assistance with more complex logistics, we’re here to ensure your freight reaches its destination efficiently and cost-effectively.
Contact Us Today
Ready to simplify your shipping experience? Contact One Freight Broker to discover how our expertise can benefit your business, ensuring your cargo is in safe hands every step of the way.
For more information on how we can assist your business, visit our website at 1fr8.broker.
