5 Ways To Get Loads For Your Trucking Company

Last Updated on May 28, 2022 by Andrew

The success of any trucking business depends on the loads they get. So, loads are a top priority for truckers. However, finding them isn’t as easy as you think; thus, brokers are vital as they help supply something that truckers are in demand for (loads). A higher supply always translates to better business operations.

Yet the reality is that finding loads is always a challenge for new and even seasoned truckers. A solid network can help you succeed, but not everyone has that luxury. 

This article will list ways you can get loads for your trucking company:

• Shippers

You can get loads directly from the shippers. This cuts off the middleman (brokers), so you won’t have to pay commission for freight brokers. All the gains come to you because you negotiate and work for yourself.

However, the drawback here is that this can be a difficult and time-consuming undertaking. Often, there’s a lot of paperwork involved in this process, so it may be hard to keep track if you’re doing it by yourself. Business to business (B2B) ventures aren’t easy to manage individually. In addition, securing solid contracts if you’re a novice can be an arduous task because larger carrier companies usually get the contract after a bidding process. Hence, you’d need some strong links to get good loads.

• Freight Brokers

These are people you go to when looking for a load. They leverage their networks to provide a wide range of loads, including those with connections to several shippers with a substantial supply of loads. 

The catch here, though, is that you’ll have to pay a commission fee on every load. Every freight broker has a different cost structure. Thus, you’ll have to inquire whether theirs works for you. Often, the good ones with excellent service charge higher commissions. For newbies, it would make sense to contact a few freight brokers to create relationships with them to get a more reliable supply of loads in the future.

• Load Boards

Many truckers these days use load boards, which are essentially public market spaces where freight brokers post loads. It’s not uncommon for the load board to charge a subscription fee, but don’t be deterred by this. You’ll find loads in no time as this is a great place to be to fulfill your needs. 

Load boards also offer several options to choose from, which add a layer of functionality that others don’t. For example, if you’re looking for refrigerated freight, flatbed, or other niche loads, look for the relevant load boards with those. 

Moreover, load boards allow you to save time and money. So, instead of going to various freight brokers to look for deals, you can do this online, so discovering freight brokers and loads becomes easier. Once you have connected with a freight broker and negotiated the terms successfully, there’s a chance that they could be a long-term partner as well. Remember, networks are a crucial aspect in the world of logistics. 

• Load Matching Applications

This is one of the easiest ways to find loads. Like load boards, these applications automate the entire process of looking for loads. They are handy, especially for those new in the field because you still don’t have many connections to your name. They also use specific algorithms to help you find relevant loads. You only have to download a load matching application and then look for loads.

These freight matching applications connect shippers with truckers efficiently. It’s a marketplace where shippers and truckers can converge to advertise and choose loads. For truckers, once you find a load you’re interested in, you can directly contact the shipper and negotiate the terms.

However, it’s important to note that you have to be careful while using these applications. Ensure you don’t get duped by following community guidelines on how people should conduct business with each other on such platforms. Be on guard and avoid providing bank details to someone you’ve just met online and who has a low rating.

• Register As A Government Contractor

Often, the government issues various contracts when in need of transport services. If you’re a registered government contractor, the advantage is you get access to many contracts regularly. However, this process may require more effort before you can be registered. Nonetheless, it’s worth trying out if you’re looking for good contracts.

Conclusion

When looking for loads, it’s always important to be open-minded. You don’t need to stick with the traditional way of going to freight brokers to find loads. There are now more sophisticated and efficient ways of looking for loads using artificial intelligence-powered platforms. Consider using load boards and load matching applications as a starting point.