Dispatch Fee: A dispatch fee is what a dispatcher charges for finding loads, negotiating rates and handling paperwork. It is most often a percentage of the load’s gross revenue, though some dispatchers use a flat or weekly fee.
Why it matters to owner operators
Compare services as well as percentages. Ask what is included, whether there is a contract, and whether you can turn down loads. Nexloads pricing is percentage-based with no long-term contracts and no forced dispatch.
Example
On a $2,000 load, a 5% fee is $100 and a 10% fee is $200.
How dispatch fees are usually structured
Most US truck dispatchers charge in one of three ways: a percentage of each load’s gross revenue (commonly in the 5% to 10% range), a flat fee per load, or a flat weekly fee. A percentage fee moves with what your truck earns, so you pay less in a slow week. A flat weekly fee is predictable, but you pay it even when the truck sits.
What the fee should cover
- Searching load boards and broker networks for freight that fits your lanes and equipment
- Negotiating the rate and confirming the details on the rate confirmation
- Broker setup paperwork such as carrier packets, W-9 and certificate of insurance
- Invoicing and sending documents to your broker or factoring company
Before you sign up, ask whether detention, layover and TONU follow-up are included, and whether the percentage is charged on linehaul only or on the full gross including fuel surcharge.
How Nexloads charges
Nexloads plans are 6% weekly for one or two dry van or reefer trucks, 5% weekly for three or more, and 5% weekly for flatbed, step deck and RGN fleets of up to ten trucks. Box truck, hotshot, straight truck and power only are quoted for your lanes. See our truck dispatch pricing.
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.