Load Board
An online marketplace where shippers post available freight and carriers find loads.
Definition
A load board is a digital marketplace connecting shippers/brokers with carriers and owner-operators. The two dominant load boards are DAT and Truckstop.com (now Truckstop). Load boards show available freight with origin, destination, rate, equipment type, and pick-up date. They are essential tools for owner-operators and small carriers. Subscription costs range from $40-$200/month depending on the platform and features.
Why it matters to you
Load boards matter once you are running under your own authority or leased on with the freedom to choose freight. They show what a lane is paying right now, which is your negotiating position with brokers. Used well, a board is market intelligence rather than a place to grab the first load; the rate you accept today sets what that broker offers you next time.
FAQ
What does Load Board mean?
An online marketplace where shippers post available freight and carriers find loads.
Why does Load Board matter to a driver?
Load boards matter once you are running under your own authority or leased on with the freedom to choose freight. They show what a lane is paying right now, which is your negotiating position with brokers. Used well, a board is market intelligence rather than a place to grab the first load; the rate you accept today sets what that broker offers you next time.
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