Freight Dispatcher how-to

How to Book a Load from a Load Board

Load boards help fill trucks and reduce empty miles.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
Quick answer

Load boards help fill trucks and reduce empty miles. In short: search; check; call, then complete the remaining steps below.

Step by step

  1. Search for loads near the truck and in the desired direction.

  2. Check rate per mile and broker credit.

  3. Call the broker and negotiate.

  4. Get a rate confirmation in writing.

  5. Assign the driver.

  6. Track and complete paperwork.

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

TMS · Load board · Rate confirmation · Detention · Deadhead · Backhaul: see the full freight dispatcher glossary.

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