Finding Loads
We use a few methods for finding loads. Most truck dispatchers work with freight brokers, intermediaries that connect shippers and carriers. We also search load boards or use load board scouts to locate freight. Sometimes we will even book loads directly with shippers or use their connections to find loads. We use these main load boards:
Assigning Loads and Managing Drivers
Truck drivers move goods around the US 24/7, for this intricate network to run efficiently, drivers should have as little downtime while working as possible. That’s where truck dispatching comes in. While a driver is out on the road, a dispatching service is locating the next suitable load for the driver so they can dispatch them as soon as possible to the following location.
Dispatchers will also stay in touch with drivers en route for their latest Estimated Time of Arrival (ETA) to ensure they’re ready for the next load. Having pre-planned loads in this manner minimizes wait time and maximizes earnings.
Maintaining Motor Carrier Compliance
With all the regulations in place to keep drivers safe, managing paperwork can be overwhelming for owner-operators. Coast To Coast Dispatching can help uphold motor carrier compliance by monitoring driver logs and ensuring there aren’t any errors or Hours of Service violations.
Managing Delays, Handle Billings , and other Services
In logistics, time is money. But unfortunately, there are things outside of a driver’s control that can put them behind schedule. Whether it’s because of severe weather or traffic jams, the most efficient route can often change after a trucker has already started driving. We stay up to date on the latest route updates and relay them to drivers to keep them safe and on schedule.
Paperwork can pile up fast but having dedicated support from a dispatcher makes billing and collections more manageable. Your customers will also appreciate receiving timely responses. And you can rest easy that you don’t have to send invoices or track down payments at the end of your day driving.
Since they often perform similar tasks, it can be easy to confuse truck dispatchers and freight brokers. However, these two services are quite different. While truck dispatchers work directly with carriers to offer support, freight brokers act as intermediaries between shippers and carriers.
Freight brokers are required to be licensed and insured in order to operate, unlike dispatch services. Also, since dispatchers work for the carrier, they work in their best interest. On the other hand, it is in a freight broker’s best interest to negotiate a lower transport rate as their commission is the difference between the rate paid to the carrier and that paid by the shipper.
1. Time – Finding the best loads, filling out load paperwork, broker packets, and requesting COIs take time. Not to mention the peak times for loads being posted, are times a driver should be on the road.
2. Money – Spot market freight means constantly negotiating freight rates. Someone that does this for 5 trucks compared to 1-2 will have a better understanding if the regional markets.
3. Relationships – Working with Shippers, Brokers, Receivers, and Lumpers can be extremely stressful. Having a 3rd party professional that is versed in difficult situations and negotiations will help a carrier keep a better rating with more brokers. A carrier can very quickly be marked DNU or have a freight guard posted if they say the wrong thing at the wrong time. Also, a dispatcher has more time to foster relationships with brokers than a carrier that is behind the wheel 10+ hours a day.
4. Troubleshooting – There are issues on the majority of loads, and having someone that is experienced in freight problems is paramount. What to look out for when hauling relays, Power Only freight, certain shippers requirements, certain broker requirements, and dealing with constantly changing appointments.
5. A good dispatcher is paid the most to be a sounding board and psychologist. Its lonely being out on the road, and having someone to talk too is a huge benefit. Someone that is invested in the success of their business and has experience helping many other companies be successful while providing a shoulder to cry on is huge for a start up.
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