Finding loads to haul directly impacts the profitability and operational sustainability of carriers—which is why it is such a crucial part of their business. Without consistent loads, carriers face periods of downtime where their trucks and drivers remain idle, leading to lost revenue opportunities.
Securing loads helps maintain cash flow, which is important for covering ongoing expenses like fuel, maintenance, and driver salaries. In fact, carriers get better control over their scheduling when they are able to find loads regularly. In the process, they also get to maximize the usage of their equipment.
Unfortunately, this is easier said than done.
Truck drivers, owner-operators, and freight brokers need to learn how to discover and secure profitable loads efficiently so that they can sustain their business in this highly-competitive industry.
Whether you’re just starting or have years of experience, the process of finding loads requires strategy, patience, and know-how. Here is everything you need to know about finding loads to haul.
Understand the Freight Market
Before diving into where and how to find loads, it is important to understand the freight market and its cycles. The freight industry is highly dynamic and is influenced by factors like seasonal demand, fuel prices, economic conditions, and even weather patterns.
For example, the holiday season can see a surge in retail shipments, while agricultural goods might peak during harvest seasons. Understanding these market fluctuations will help you identify which loads are in high demand and when. As a trucker or freight operator, this will help you predict when to push harder for better rates or when to adjust expectations.
Load Boards: The Digital Marketplace
Now when it comes to finding loads, load boards are perhaps the most widely used tool. This is a digital marketplace where shippers, brokers, and carriers connect.
Also known as freight boards, load boards allow carriers to browse and select from a wide range of available loads, typically listed by brokers or direct shippers. These boards are accessible online through websites and mobile apps, giving carriers the convenience of searching for loads anytime, anywhere.
Some load boards are free, while others operate on a subscription basis, offering additional tools and filters to help carriers find loads that match their requirements, such as preferred routes, types of cargo, and rates.
With a load board, carriers can enjoy a large volume of available goods, giving them options to keep their trucks moving. This is especially helpful for companies that do not have dedicated contracts or regular customers.
Many load boards allow carriers to set alerts for specific load types or locations, making it easier to plan routes and reduce downtime between hauls.
Advanced load boards may even come with additional features like credit checks for shippers, fuel price insights, and market rate comparisons. These helpful features allow carriers to make informed decisions about which loads to take.
Popular Load Boards
There are numerous load boards available, each with its own set of features, pricing models, and load types. Some charge a fee to access premium loads, while others provide basic access for free. Below are some popular load boards:
- DAT Load Board: One of the most well-known load boards, DAT provides access to thousands of loads every day. It offers both free and paid versions, with the paid option providing advanced filtering and higher-quality loads.
- Truckstop.com: Truckstop is another major player in the load board market. It allows you to find loads, manage your business, and even book freight in real time.
- Direct Freight Services: This load board is especially useful for smaller trucking businesses. Direct Freight has a user-friendly interface and provides options for both standard and expedited freight.
- 11Main: A less well-known but still valuable option for finding loads, especially for owner-operators.
How to Use Load Boards Effectively
For carriers just starting out or those looking to expand into new regions, load boards provide a straightforward, efficient way to connect with shippers and build relationships, helping to grow their business.
But in order to make the most out of these load boards, you need to refine your search criteria. Here are some tips for navigating load boards effectively:
- Use Filters: Set filters to match your truck type, location, and the type of freight you want to haul. This ensures that you only see relevant loads and don’t waste time sifting through unqualified options.
- Be Quick to Respond: Loads on load boards move quickly, so it’s important to act fast. Set up alerts or notifications so you can be the first to know when a load becomes available.
- Understand Load Details: Before accepting a load, carefully review the details like weight, dimensions, delivery windows, and the rate. Make sure you’re clear about the terms of the load before booking it.
Freight Brokers: Networking for Loads
Aside from load boards, another good source of loads to haul is freight brokers.
Freight brokers act as intermediaries between shippers and carriers, and working with them can be an efficient strategy. Brokers facilitate transactions, matching shippers with the right carriers and handling all the paperwork.
Freight brokers often have access to a wide network of shippers across various industries. This network gives brokers the ability to provide consistent work for carriers, streamlining the logistics process. Their job is to make sure that the load details align with the carrier’s equipment and schedule.
Additionally, brokers handle the administrative and regulatory aspects of the shipping process, reducing the burden on carriers and helping them avoid compliance issues.
Brokers often have a portfolio of clients and loads, meaning they can offer a variety of hauling opportunities, from local routes to long-haul freight. For carriers, working with a freight broker can increase their loads regardless of market fluctuations or seasonal slowdowns.
Tips for Working with Freight Brokers
When working with freight brokers, it’s essential to establish clear, professional communication and build trust. Start by researching and partnering with reputable brokers who have a strong track record in the industry and are known for reliable payments.
Always confirm load details in writing, including the pickup and delivery times, load weight, and any special requirements. Be prompt and proactive in updating brokers on your availability and location, which shows reliability and keeps you on their radar for future opportunities.
Negotiation is key, so know your rates, including fuel costs, to ensure each haul is profitable. Maintaining good relationships with brokers can even lead to better rates and priority on quality loads, so be respectful and solution-oriented in any disputes, and aim for mutual benefit in each transaction.
Direct Shipper Contracts: Establishing Long-Term Relationships
Another good way to find loads to haul is to secure direct shipper contracts. This gives carriers greater control, and often better rates than using a load board or working with brokers.
To land these contracts, carriers should research local businesses in their niche that frequently need freight transportation. Targeting specific industries like agriculture, construction, or retail, based on your hauling capabilities can help identify potential clients.
Keep in mind that building relationships with shippers can take time. It is therefore beneficial to begin networking with logistics managers and attending trade shows to meet more decision-makers in the industry.
Craft a professional pitch that emphasizes your reliability and any unique service offerings you have. This can help you stand out as a carrier. Over time, providing excellent service to shippers can lead to recurring contracts and long-term partnerships.
How to Find Direct Shipper Contracts
- Networking: Attend freight industry events, conferences, and trade shows to network with potential shippers. These face-to-face interactions can often lead to more trust and opportunities.
- Cold Calling and Outreach: Don’t be afraid to reach out to shippers directly. Introduce your business, and let them know what services you can offer. If they like what they hear, you could land a direct contract.
- Leverage Industry Associations: Organizations such as the Transportation Intermediaries Association (TIA) or American Trucking Associations (ATA) can help you connect with shippers looking for reliable carriers.
Consider Specialized Freight and Niches
Focusing on a certain niche can help you find more lucrative loads. Not to mention specialized freight often pays better and comes with less competition. Here are some examples to consider:
Oversized and Heavy Haul Loads
Hauling oversized and heavy loads requires specialized equipment like flatbeds, step decks, and heavy-haul trailers. This niche offers carriers higher rates due to the expertise and permits needed to transport large machinery, construction equipment, or other oversized freight.
However, it requires significant knowledge of state regulations, escort requirements, and proper loading techniques. This makes it ideal for experienced carriers willing to invest in special equipment and training.
Refrigerated Freight (Reefer)
Refrigerated freight includes perishable goods like food, pharmaceuticals, and medical supplies that require temperature-controlled environments. Demand for reefers is consistent year-round, especially in agriculture-heavy regions or during certain seasons, ensuring steady income opportunities.
Reefer hauls typically pay higher than standard freight, but they come with added responsibilities like maintaining strict temperature controls and quick turnarounds to avoid spoilage.
Hazardous Materials (Hazmat)
Transporting hazardous materials can be lucrative due to the high rates and specialized handling required for chemicals, fuel, or other dangerous goods. Carriers must obtain Hazmat endorsements, specialized insurance, and meet strict federal and state regulations. While there are added expenses and risks involved, the Hazmat niche is a profitable option for carriers willing to meet compliance standards and take extra safety precautions.
Auto Transport
Auto transport involves hauling vehicles, often using a specialized car carrier. This type of freight ranges from personal vehicles to dealership inventories and can be profitable with steady demand, particularly during peak moving seasons.
Auto transport requires special loading techniques and knowledge of securing vehicles to prevent damage. It’s an excellent choice for carriers interested in predictable, route-based work with premium rates for enclosed carriers.
Expedited Freight
Expedited freight focuses on time-sensitive loads that need to reach their destination quickly, often within hours or a day. Typically, these are high-priority items for industries like medical, automotive, or e-commerce that need rapid delivery. Expedited loads usually come with higher rates, but they demand flexibility in scheduling, quick turnarounds, and sometimes team driving to meet tight deadlines. This niche works well for carriers able to adapt to last-minute bookings and prioritize speed.
Work with One Freight Broker
While consistently finding loads to haul can be challenging for carriers, it is also ultimately a rewarding task. By following some of the tips provided by One Freight Broker, you can increase your chances of finding profitable loads.
At the end of the day, the key to success is persistence, strategic networking, and adaptability. Keep refining your process, stay informed about market conditions, and you’ll be well on your way to finding consistent, high-paying loads.
Alternatively, you can also work with One Freight Broker. Since our founding in 2013, we have significantly reduced shipping costs for our clients, amounting to tens of millions in savings. We have enhanced the profitability of asset fleets by reducing their dependence on intermediaries.
With our inclusive approach, we help our clients build beneficial, enduring, and direct connections with dependable trucking allies. Choose One Freight Broker if you want reliable freight transportation services and unprecedented depth of strategic insight.
Our extensive network of carriers allows us to pass on high-volume discounts to customers. We are also known for our extensive service range and advanced technological solutions. We provide LTL, FTL, domestic, international, and expedited shipping options, allowing us to cater to diverse shipping requirements. Our user-friendly online platform and TMS also help us streamline the shipping process, providing extra transparency and efficiency with our tech-driven solutions.
At One Freight Broker, we are committed to helping you navigate the complexities of PTL and LTL national shipping. Whether you’re a small or medium-sized business, our tailored solutions are designed to meet your specific shipping needs.
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.
