If you operate a power-only truck or fleet you may find it difficult to find loads to haul to keep your truck on the road and earning for you.
As a shipper, you may have trailers that you can use for your loads but struggle to find carriers with power-only units to move them for you. This is where a load board can help.
Load boards that feature power-only trucking allow both shippers and carriers to find each other quickly and easily so that loads can be moved efficiently and cost-effectively. The load board can also help streamline processes and help manage loads more efficiently.
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The table below shows a quick price comparison of all the load board solutions that we’ve researched:
Company name | Monthly cost | Free plan |
---|---|---|
123 Loadboard | From $39/mo | Free trial for 10 days |
Direct Freight Services | From free | Free account & free to post loads |
JB Hunt | From free | Free for shippers |
Truckstop | From $39/mo | No |
Trucker Path | From free | Free for brokers |
Trulos | From free | Free to use |
Convoy | From free | Free to use |
Doft | From free | Free plan |
Loadup | From free | Free for shippers and some carriers |
FreightFinder.com | From free | Free to use |
Atlantic Logistics | Not stated | No |
Brokered Loads | Not stated | No |
Jones Logistics | Not stated | No |
Mercer Transportation | Not stated | No |
NFI | Not stated | No |
Online Freight Services | Not stated | No |
Bridgeway | Not stated | No |
Werner | Not stated | No |
Schneider | Not stated | Free for brokers and shippers, a free three day trial for carriers |
FindFreightLoads | Not stated | No |
LoadMatch | From free | Free plan and 30 day trial of the paid plan |
Arcbest | Not stated | No |
Swift Logistics | From free | Free to use |
ATS | Not stated | No |
Circle Logistics | Not stated | No |
Trucker Tools | Not stated | No |
Sureway | Not stated | No |
NTG | Not stated | No |
TQL | From free | Free to use |
Bennett | Not stated | No |
Globaltranz | Not stated | No |
*The prices in the table above (where available) come directly from each company’s website and were accurate at the time of writing. Since then, those prices may have changed.
We’ve listed the results of our load board research and the features of each company’s product in a bit more detail below. You’ll be able to see the benefits of their service and some general information about the company as well.
*companies are ranked in no particular order.
Topics
1. 123 Loadboard
123 Loadboard provides freight services that cater for businesses of all sizes throughout the US and parts of Canada through their load board.
- They have a load board that is easy and quick to use
- They provide a range of plans for carriers and brokers
- A 10-day free trial is available for carrier plans
- A demo of the software is also available
- Loads can be searched based on the location such as city, zip or GPS
- Alerts can be set up to inform you about suitable loads
- You can utilise their Rate Check tool to help negotiate the rates
- Offers mileage and routing services to assist users
- It is accessible through the mobile app so can be used from anywhere
- They provide additional support to users through compliance services and credit checks
Website: https://www.123loadboard.com/
2. Direct Freight Services
Direct Freight Services is a freight services company that operates across the US bringing together drivers, shippers and brokers to match loads.
- Offers a free load board for shippers and brokers
- You don’t need an account to access the load board
- A free account is available to carriers to enable them to contact shippers and brokers
- They provide a variety of load types which include power-only
- 300,000 loads are available each day with unlimited searches
- Searching is easy using their improved load filtering and custom columns
- They can assist with route planning and weather forecasts
- Email and text alerts can be set up for suitable loads
- They provide a Driver App to allow access to the load board from anywhere
- Provides users with access to credit scores and full credit reports
Website: https://www.directfreight.com/
3. JB Hunt
JB Hunt provides freight transportation solutions that are designed to help support owner-operators, small and large fleets.
- They have designed a platform that can manage each step of the transportation process
- They have two packages – Carrier 360 and Shipper 360
- Over one million trucks form their network
- They offer a range of equipment types including power-only
- It is easy to submit quotes and book loads
- Access to shipper reviews is available to users
- They can provide faster payment facilities
- They can offer 24/7 tracking facilities
- Integrations are possible with API and EDI
- They offer incentives to carriers through their rewards program
Website: https://www.jbhunt.com/
4. Truckstop
Truckstop supports businesses with practical solutions and technology enhancements for moving freight throughout its lifecycle from matching loads through to payments.
- Their load board caters for carriers, shippers and brokers
- Choose between their plans from a Basic to a Pro plan
- Has over 250,000 active users on the load board
- Each year there are 80 million loads available
- Provides loads for a variety of equipment including power-only
- Allows you to search and post loads easily
- Provides heat maps and real-time updates
- Access to carrier ratings is offered on the Pro plans
- They provide support to users in the form of market insight
- Additional services can be accessed including cargo insurance and invoicing
Website: https://truckstop.com/
5. Trucker Path
Trucker Path is a freight systems provider that offers a variety of tools including fleet management, fleet monitoring, navigation assistance and freight matching assistance.
- Their load board is free to access for carriers
- Choose between three plans
- The network comprises of over 100,000 carriers and 800 brokers
- Access to over 150,000 loads daily
- Offers a range of loads including power-only
- All plans allow you to search loads, post loads and calculate charges
- Credit scores and day rates are available on some plans
- Access to reporting facilities is available on the highest plans such as historical trends, capacity indicators and load density reports
- Provides an app that they claim is one of America’s most popular trucker apps
- Their app provides a range of services not just a load board
Website: https://truckerpath.com/
6. Trulos
Trulos is a load board that has been designed to assist small fleet owners and owner-operators to compete for loads with large companies.
- Their load board is free to use
- You don’t need to sign up to access the load board
- Loads are updated live and thousands are available daily
- They offer LTL and truckload options
- They cater for a range of loads including power-only
- The load board can be searched by location state and equipment type
- Rates are included on the load board
- They provide access to fuel-efficient routing
- Offers access to industry information
- They aim to assist truckers in making their business more profitable
Website: https://trulos.com/
7. Convoy
Convoy provides a large network of carriers and assists carriers in finding loads as well as helping all parties create efficiencies. They claim to be one of the leading digital freight networks in America.
- Their load board is free to use
- Choice of load rates – first you can accept the advertised rate or second bid on the load
- They cater for carriers of all sizes
- Designed to keep your truck on the road and access preferred routes
- Loads are easily searched to find ones that match your requirements
- Be notified of suitable loads by setting up alerts for new loads
- Fleet locations and arrival times can be tracked through the app
- Access the load board through a desktop or mobile app
- Can get paid quicker through QuickPay
- Access discounts for fuel, tyres, roadside assistance, ELD devices and more
Website: https://convoy.com/
8. Doft
Doft provides a specialist freight load board which is designed to increase the efficiency of loads by making it easier to match shippers and drivers in the US, Canada and Mexico.
- Their load board offers a free to use plan which includes many of the key features
- They also offer a premium plan which provides enhanced features
- Each day over 150,000 loads are available
- Loads can be easily searched and bid for on the load board
- Notifications can be set up for nearby loads
- Instant rate confirmation can be sent to carriers
- They aim to help increase revenue and truck usage
- They provide a mobile app to allow flexible access
- If vehicles have trackers fitted, GPS tracking data is available
- Payment for loads can be received in as little as 24 hours
Website: https://doft.com/
9. Loadup
Loadup offers two separate load boards, one which caters for the US and Canada and the second is an International load board which covers the rest of the world.
- Their load board is free for shippers to access
- Some carriers may be able to get a free account depending on their truck type
- Carriers must register and a membership fee may apply
- Caters for over 35 equipment types including power-only
- Suitable for freight brokers, private individuals, manufacturers, movers and more
- Provides members with unrestricted access to loads without bidding or auctions and no commission
- They also offer tender opportunities
- Email alerts can be set up for suitable loads
- Direct access is given to shippers and brokers
- You can be included in their courier and hauler member directory
Website: http://www.usacanadaloadup.com/
10. FreightFinder.com
FreightFinder.com provides freight solutions which include a load board that is integrated with the LoadBoardNetwork which caters for owner-operators, trucking companies and freight brokers.
- Their load board is free to use
- It is secure and easy to use
- You don’t need an account to view the load board
- Each day thousands of loads are available
- Enables users to personalise their experience
- Loads are searchable by equipment type and radius based on origin or destination
- Truck availability can also be posted by carriers
- Also provides mileage and routing services
- Offers an industry directory in which you can be included
- Other services include a refined industry search engine and a trucking job site
Website: https://www.freightfinder.com/
11. Atlantic Logistics
Atlantic Logistics is a 3PL company that offers a load board that is designed to help improve supply chains and assist in matching shippers and carriers.
- They were named a top freight broker for the 5th time in 2021
- They have a large network of qualified carriers
- Operates across North America
- Over 250,000 shipments have been completed by them
- Caters for a variety of vehicles including power-only
- Register with them online and vetting will take place before access is granted
- You can search and filter loads by origin, destination, rates, mileage, dates and equipment
- Advanced technology helps users accept and schedule loads
- Their dedicated support team assist users
- Provides access to Quick Pay for faster payments
Website: https://www.shipatlantic.com/
12. Brokered Loads
Brokered Loads offers their load board in conjunction with ATS Logistics and Sureway Transportation Company to help keep trucks on the road and full.
- They offer a closed access load board that provides loads in real time
- It is a self-service booking system for carriers and shippers
- They have a network of vetted carriers
- Their loads cater for a variety of load types and vehicles including power-only
- Register on their website to access the load board
- Loads can be searched with a set radius of the origin and destination, equipment type, load size and date
- They add loads to the load board on behalf of shippers
- Track your loads in real time
- Their customer portal provides access to documentation
- An integration with Transflo can streamline your paperwork
Website: https://brokeredloads.com/
13. Jones Logistics
Jones Logistics claims to be one of the US’ top 10 flatbed transporters that offers a range of freight services such as managed transportation, dedicated operations, and freight brokerage.
- Offers a load board to help optimise freight spend and find trusted carriers
- Supports carriers in finding loads to maximise their fleet and increase income
- Their carrier network has over 26,000 carriers
- You need to register and be approved before you can access the load board
- Loads can be searched and filtered by location, day available and equipment
- Load details include equipment type, origin, destination, distance and weight
- Offers communications tools to help ease delivery
- Also can help with schedule management, billing and claim management
- Loads can be tracked through the load board
- Faster payment solutions available through Quick Pay
Website: https://www.joneslogistics.com/
14. Mercer Transportation
Mercer Transportation claims to be one of the largest flatbed, heavy specialised and dry van carriers in the US that delivers shipping services across North America.
- They offer a load board that delivers over 500,000 loads per year
- Their carrier network has over 30,000 carriers
- To access the load board you need to register with them
- Vetting takes place on safety and insurance
- You can search for suitable loads
- Their Personal Load Coordinators are available to help you manage your loads
- Local agents and Regional Sales Managers support shippers
- Shipments can be tracked in real time
- They provide faster payments for loads
- Provides discounts on fuel, tyres and services
Website: https://mercer-trans.com/
15. NFI
NFI claims to be the 6th largest dedicated carrier in North America and they offer transportation management services, dedicated transportation and freight brokerage services.
- They offer a load board with a variety of load types including power-only
- Their network has over 40,000 carriers
- They offer steady opportunities from their large customer base
- Offers a variety of loads including dedicated and consistent routes
- Loads are searchable by a range of factors including location, equipment type, and license class
- Load details include the average pay
- Their team provide support for freight brokerage services
- Offers weekly settlements paid directly to you
- Utilise their in-house maintenance services for your truck
- Access discounts on fuel, tyres, truck and health insurance
Website: https://www.nfiindustries.com/
16. Online Freight Services
Online Freight Services is a freight systems provider that is backed by Echo Global Logistics and they help improve the management of shipments and loads.
- Their load board helps carriers find suitable loads
- They have a reliable network of over 50,000 carriers
- It is a self-service web portal to match carriers and shippers
- Provides customers that have a broad range of shipment types and locations
- They claim to offer competitive load rates
- Easily find loads that match your requirements
- Provides out-of-hours support to their users
- Faster payment solutions are available
- Can provide access to TMSPro software to issue invoices, collect invoices and pay carriers
- Allows integrations that can provide efficiencies and streamline processes
Website: https://onlinefreight.com/
17. Bridgeway
Bridgeway is one of America’s largest specialty transportation providers that offers a range of freight services through its extensive network of owner-operators, agents and third-party carriers.
- Their purpose built platform helps match shippers and carriers
- Has an extensive network of 100,000 freight professionals
- They offer loads for a variety of equipment including power-only
- They provide experienced freight handlers that can handle the toughest transport challenges
- They aim to help carriers access and manage loads
- Claim to offer loads at competitive rates
- They provide a personalised service
- Register with them to become one of their carriers
- Allows shippers to find safe and reliable carriers
- Provides discounts on fuel and equipment
Website: https://bridgewayconnects.com/
18. Werner
Werner provides transportation and logistics solutions to businesses of all sizes around the world and they claim to be one of the US’ five largest truckload carriers.
- The load board is called Werner Bridge
- They have a carrier network of over 35,000 carriers
- A broad range of loads are offered through the load board including power-only
- You need to complete an online registration to join their network
- Carriers will be vetted before being given access to the load board
- Search loads by equipment, origin, destination and date
- You can find loads on preferred lanes
- Quotes can be requested by shippers and an immediate response received
- They can assist with transactions and communications
- Get up-to-date tracking information on their dashboard
Website: https://www.werner.com/
19. Schneider
Schneider provides freight and logistics solutions through their load board that aims to help shippers find carriers and assist carriers in improving their efficiency and growing their business.
- The Schneider FreightPower load board is free to use
- Each day thousands of loads are available
- Offers a range of loads including power-only
- They have designed the load board to make it easy to find and book loads
- You need to register to become a carrier for them
- Carriers’ suitability is checked before access is granted
- They provide enhanced filtering in searches, watch loads, allow you to select preferred lanes and give load recommendations
- Flexible payment options are available
- You can access the load board online or through the mobile app
- They offer discounts on fuel, tyres, maintenance and roadside assistance
Website: https://schneider.com/
20. FindFreightLoads.com
FindFreightLoads.com has created a load board that utilises artificial intelligence and machine learning to provide better load matches.
- Their load board is called RightNowLoad.com
- They offer free access to shippers and brokers
- Carriers will need to pay a monthly fee but no contract applies
- A free three-day trial is available for carriers
- The load board is searchable for suitable loads
- Shippers can utilise bulk upload facilities
- They allow direct contact between postholders and carriers
- Access credit report lookups to check shippers
- Factoring solutions are available
- Additional services include fuel discounts, mileage and routing services, and weather and load conditions
Website: https://findfreightloads.com/
21. LoadMatch
LoadMatch has designed a load board that brings together carriers and shippers to allow them to exchange information on loads, trucks and equipment.
- Offers a load board that has a free plan
- An enhanced plan is available on a monthly subscription
- A 30-day free trial is available for the paid plan
- Suitable for freight brokers, freight forwarders, motor carriers and a variety of other carriers including power-only
- Operates across North America
- Carriers can search for loads and post available equipment
- Shippers can easily post loads
- Notifications can be set up for new suitable posts
- Get a free listing in their Intermodal Directory
- Their website includes a Jobs and Resumes section
Website: https://loadmatch.com/
22. ArcBest
ArcBest is a global logistics company that offers shipping solutions including a load board and managed logistics services in the US, Canada, Mexico, Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic.
- They provide a specialist load board for power-only
- They cater for a range of businesses
- Over 5,000 unique shipments are available daily
- Premium freight solutions are offered through their Panther Freight
- Join their load board online
- Loads are searchable by location, date, equipment and shipment type
- Can help with consistent loads and preferred lanes
- LTL solutions are available for shorter hauls
- Around-the-clock support is available for users
- They aim to help you to operate more efficiently
Website: https://arcb.com/
23. Swift Logistics
Swift Logistics offers a load board in conjunction with KNX Logistics that provides transportation and logistics solutions across North America.
- Their load board is free to use for both carriers and shippers
- There are no fees or contract
- You will however need to sign up for the load board to access it
- They have a network of over 20,000 carriers
- Over 10 million miles are driven by their network daily
- They have over 2,000 unique customers
- Caters for a range of vehicles and load types including power-only
- Posts are searchable for suitable loads
- Operational support is available 24/7
- Access fuel discounts through the Iron Fuel Program
Website: https://www.swiftlogistics.com/index.html
24. ATS
ATS (Anderson Trucking Service) offers shipping and haulage solutions to carriers and shippers through their load board which aids the matching of loads.
- Their load board is called ATS FreightMatch which is easy to use
- They have over 5,000 customers using their load board to post loads
- They cater for a variety of load types including power-only
- Complete their online form to join the load board
- Loads can be easily searched to find matching loads
- Loads can be filtered on criteria such as total pay, rate per mile, length of haul and trailer type
- The posts hold a detailed information about the load including what the load is and collection and delivery information
- Booking loads is easy to do
- They provide a mobile app to enable access from anywhere
- They aim to help users simplify their logistics and reduce overheads
Website: https://www.atsinc.com/
25. Circle Logistics
Circle Logistics provides freight brokerage services and is an asset carrier that offers logistics services across the US, Canada and Mexico through their fleet and carrier network.
- Their load board caters for independent carriers
- Designed to help smaller carriers gain access to larger opportunities
- Offers a choice of traditional and dedicated broker options
- Caters for a variety of loads and equipment including power-only
- They operate across the US with nine offices
- Loads can be searched and filtered by location and equipment type
- Shippers are offered a personalised solution
- Provides shippers with 100% visibility through their tracking facilities
- They can offer faster payments
- Uses the latest technology which can help with EDI requirements
Website: https://circledelivers.com/
26. Trucker Tools
Trucker Tools offers a range of freight management tools to assist businesses with their supply chains and managing their loads which include TMS, load board, ELD, telematics and dispatch systems.
- Their load board is called Book It Now
- Access a network of 165,000 carriers and 13 million trucks
- Sign up for the load board on their website
- The load board is searchable for suitable loads
- Loads can be found on preferred lanes and you can save preferred brokers
- You can send a quote and negotiate rates quickly and easily
- They offer recommendations based on your preferences
- Use the load board to view and manage loads more effectively
- Loads are trackable through the load board
- Provides additional tools to support your business
Website: https://www.truckertools.com/
27. Sureway
Sureway is a trucking company that is one of America’s top 25 freight brokerage companies and is a division of Anderson Trucking Service (ATS).
- Their load board is designed for carriers of all sizes including owner-operators
- Has a large network of over 150,000 carriers
- A couple of thousand loads are available
- Over one million trucks cover the US
- Equipment and load options include power-only
- Complete their online form to become a carrier
- You can search and book loads easily
- Can provide access to consistent freight options
- Regular carrier reviews are undertaken on paperwork to ensure standards are maintained
- Access faster payment solutions that can be paid in three to five days
Website: https://www.sureway.com/
28. NTG
NTG or Nolan Transportation Group claims to be one of North America’s top ranking logistics companies and they provide logistics services backed by their multi-modal expertise and technology assistance.
- Their load board is called Beon Carrier
- A network of over 80,000 carriers
- Their loads include a variety of equipment including power-only
- Aids owner-operators and dispatchers in finding suitable loads
- Utilise their tools to search, bid and win loads at the best rates
- Choice of instant bid and book or book straight away
- You can track freight 24/7
- Payment options are available in 1 or 2-days
- Access the load board through a web-based portal or mobile app
- Additional functionality includes document storage, shipment records, invoicing and PODs
Website: https://ntgfreight.com/
29. TQL
TQL offers freight brokerage services across North America through their 56 offices and they have delivered three million loads per year.
- Their load board is free to use
- Each week 65,000 loads are available to carriers
- They support a variety of load types including power-only
- You need to complete their online form to become a carrier
- Carriers will be vetted before access is given which includes checking their certificates and insurance
- Loads are searchable and preferred lanes can be searched
- A dedicated Carrier Relations Team is available for support
- The load board is available through the web portal and mobile app
- They offer a choice of payment options
- They have the highest Blue Book credit ratings
Website: https://www.tql.com/
30. Bennett
Bennett provides transportation and logistics services through their network of owner-operators, agents and employees which operates across North America.
- Their load board caters for owner-operators and carriers
- Over 3,000 carriers form part of their carrier network
- Caters for a range of industries including entertainment, construction, medical, military and agricultural
- Loads are searchable to find loads to match your needs
- A personal contact will be given to you to provide support
- Receive a free ELD device if you transport five or more loads per month through them
- They utilise advanced technology to track shipments and provide proof of delivery
- The load board is available on their mobile app or loads can be emailed to you
- They offer faster payments in three days with no fees
- You can access even faster payments if you pay a processing fee
Website: https://www.bennettig.com/
31. GlobalTranz
GlobalTranz offers freight and logistics services to shippers of all sizes and across all modes of freight across North America.
- Their load board caters for drivers and dispatchers
- Their network has over 121,000 customers
- Over 85,000 carriers are part of their network
- They provide a variety of solutions which include power-only
- Complete an online application to become a carrier
- The load board allows you to access and manage loads
- They enable all payments to be managed online
- Performance can be monitored through tracking and reports
- Users are supported by a dedicated carrier relations team
- They provide faster payments through Quick Pay in 24-48 hours
Website: https://www.globaltranz.com/
Power-only trucking load board Q&A
What is power-only trucking?
Power-only trucking is where the carrier or owner-operator provides the tractor and driver only and not the trailer. The tractor is also known as the power unit. The driver of the tractor will hook up to a trailer that will be either owned by a shipper, a three logistics provider or leased.
This service is particularly useful for shippers who own their trailers but need a vehicle and driver to haul them. It’s a flexible solution that can help companies manage fluctuating demands for transportation without the need to invest in additional tractors or hire full-time drivers.
Key Features of Power-Only Trucking
- Flexibility: Power-only trucking allows shippers to quickly scale up or down their shipping capacity in response to business needs without the costs associated with maintaining a fleet of tractors.
- Convenience: Shippers with preloaded trailers can have them moved as needed without tying up their resources in logistics management.
- Cost-Effectiveness: It eliminates the capital expenditure of purchasing and maintaining a fleet of trucks for businesses that already own or lease trailers.
- Wide Application: Power-only trucking is used in various scenarios, including the transportation of dry van trailers, flatbeds, refrigerated trailers, and specialized equipment.
- Efficiency: It can streamline operations by allowing drivers to hook up to a loaded trailer and transport it to its destination, reducing loading and unloading times.
Applications of Power-Only Trucking
Power-only services are utilized across multiple industries for various purposes, such as:
- Seasonal Shipping Peaks: Businesses experiencing seasonal spikes in demand can use power-only services to handle extra loads without permanent fleet expansion.
- Project-Based Work: For construction or project-based industries that need to move equipment or materials on an as-needed basis.
- Expedited Shipments: When goods need to be moved quickly, power-only can expedite transportation by using preloaded trailers.
- Logistics Flexibility: Companies that prefer to own their specialized trailers for specific cargo but do not want to operate their own tractors find power-only trucking a suitable solution.
Considerations for Power-Only Trucking
- Trailer Readiness: It’s crucial that the trailers are roadworthy and properly maintained, as the power-only provider typically assumes responsibility for the tractor only.
- Insurance and Liability: Clear agreements regarding liability and insurance coverage for the cargo, trailer, and tractor during transit are necessary to protect all parties involved.
- Regulatory Compliance: Compliance with all relevant transportation regulations, including those related to weight, dimensions, and cargo-specific rules, remains a shared responsibility.
Why should you use power-only trucking?
You should consider using power-only trucking if you have access to trailers for your loads that are suitable for the load and if they represent a cost-effective solution. It may also be advisable for those who can benefit from being able to fill the trailers in advance or as the goods are ready and then get the power unit when it is ready to be delivered.
You need to factor in that the carrier will be using your trailer and you will need to ensure that the trailer is left in the right location. If the location you want the trailer is the origin location and you don’t have a return load this may not be the most cost-effective solution.
You will also need to trust the carrier with not only your load but your trailer as well and ensure that you have the appropriate insurance cover between you so that if the worst happens you are not left without a trailer or the money to replace it.
Do all power-only load boards show rates?
Load boards that include power-only trucking are no different to most other load boards and they don’t tend to display the rates for the load. Load rates are commonly not shown because the load boards are trying to create a competitive platform for shippers and brokers to get the best possible rates for their loads.
Carriers generally have to bid for loads or submit quotes which allows the shipper or broker to choose the best rate or most suitable carrier for the load. If the load board included the rates it wouldn’t create the same level of competition.
But if you struggle to know what to charge for loads or how to assess the quotes or bids you receive, then some load boards offer tools and assistance to help you. Depending on the load board you may be able to access historical load rates and/or rate calculators to help you.
Which load board pays the most?
No load board typically pays more than another load board as the load board themselves don’t determine or influence the prices of loads. The rate for loads is determined by either the shipper/broker or the carrier.
The shipper or broker determines the rate on load boards that advertise the rates for the loads although carriers may negotiate the rate. On load boards where the carriers need to bid for loads, carriers decide what they are willing to deliver the load for and the shipper or broker gets to choose which carrier or rate they want.
If you want help in deciding what to bid or quote, some of the load boards may offer some tools and resources that can help in the form of rate calculators and historical load rates. These tools and resources can also be useful for shippers to set rates or assess the quotes or bids they receive.
Are there any restrictions around power-only trucking?
While power-only trucking offers flexibility and efficiency for transporting trailers, there are several considerations and regulatory restrictions that both carriers and shippers need to be aware of:
1. Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Requirements
- Drivers must have the appropriate CDL for the type of trailer and cargo they are hauling. This includes having specific endorsements for certain types of loads, such as hazardous materials.
2. Insurance Coverage
- Adequate insurance coverage is crucial. Carriers need to ensure they have liability and cargo insurance that covers the type of goods being transported. Shippers should also verify that their cargo is covered during transport.
3. Equipment Compatibility
- The tractor provided by the carrier must be compatible with the trailer in terms of hitch type, electrical connections, and air brake systems. It’s important to ensure that the power unit can safely haul the trailer and its load.
4. Roadworthiness of the Trailer
- The trailer must be in good condition and meet all safety standards. This includes tires, brakes, lights, and other critical components. Carriers may refuse to transport trailers that do not meet safety requirements.
5. Weight and Size Regulations
- Both the tractor and trailer must comply with federal, state, and local regulations regarding weight and dimensions. Overweight or oversized loads may require special permits.
6. Hazardous Materials (HazMat) Regulations
- If the trailer contains hazardous materials, additional regulations apply. Drivers must have a HazMat endorsement on their CDL, and both the trailer and tractor must be equipped and marked according to regulations.
7. Hours of Service (HOS) Regulations
- Drivers are subject to HOS regulations, which limit the number of hours they can drive without taking a break. Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) are typically required to track driving hours accurately.
8. Maintenance and Inspection Requirements
- Regular maintenance and inspection of both the tractor and trailer are required to ensure they are safe to operate. This includes pre-trip inspections by the driver.
9. State and Local Restrictions
- Certain areas may have specific restrictions or requirements for commercial vehicles, including restrictions on travel times for oversized loads or HazMat cargoes.
10. Contractual Obligations
- Agreements between shippers and carriers should clearly define responsibilities, including who is responsible for securing the load, obtaining necessary permits, and ensuring compliance with all regulations.