Load Board: A load board is an online marketplace where brokers and shippers post available loads and carriers search for freight that fits their equipment and lanes.
Why it matters to owner operators
Load boards are a main source of spot freight, but posted rates can be low and fraud exists. Verify who posted the load and know your minimum rate before you call.
Example
A carrier searches a load board for a flatbed load from Houston, then checks the broker’s authority before booking.
Common US load boards
DAT and Truckstop are the two largest paid load boards in the US. Other options include 123Loadboard, the free Trucker Path board and broker-run load portals. Most charge a monthly subscription, and many also show rate data so you can see recent average pay on a lane.
How to use a load board well
- Check posted rates against recent lane averages before you call a broker
- Check the broker’s credit score and days-to-pay before you book
- Search for the reload first so you don’t get stuck in a market with little outbound freight
- Call quickly, because good loads go fast, but don’t accept below your cost per mile
Load boards are only one source of freight. A dispatcher also works direct broker relationships. See our guide to the best load boards for owner operators and our truck dispatch services.
Related terms
Haul smarter with a dispatch team behind you
Nexloads finds loads, negotiates rates and handles paperwork for owner operators and small fleets. No forced dispatch and no long-term contracts.