Freight Dispatcher how-to
How to Assign a Load to a Driver
Good assignments match freight, location and hours.
Quick answer
Good assignments match freight, location and hours. In short: check; find; check, then complete the remaining steps below.
Step by step
Check the load details: pickup, delivery, weight and equipment.
Find drivers near the pickup with the right equipment.
Check each driver’s available hours.
Confirm the plan with the driver.
Send load details and appointments.
Monitor progress and update the customer.
Safety reminders for freight dispatchers
- Never pressure drivers to violate hours-of-service rules
- Avoid routing trucks onto restricted roads
- Monitor weather and road conditions
- Take breaks to manage stress
Key terms
TMS · Load board · Rate confirmation · Detention · Deadhead · Backhaul: see the full freight dispatcher glossary.