How To Find Loads as an Owner-Operator
Finding loads as an owner-operator can be difficult but there are many ways to find work when starting.
So you have decided to join the freighting workforce and your next question is, “Now what?” Starting a business in the freight industry can be intimidating, but here are some essential tips to help you find work and establish yourself in the field.
Utilize Load Boards as an Owner-Operator
Load Boards are one of the best routes to go if you are a new company. They are usually free and offer a variety of freight to choose from across the country. The downside is they can be low-paying and unpredictable. It’s a good idea to try a few different ones and see which ones work the best for you. Many of them have convenient apps to help you find work on the go. Some of the go-to apps are:
- DAT Load Board
- 123Loadboard
- Direct Freight
- Truckstop
- Trucker Path
Dispatchers
There are typically two ways to make use of dispatchers. You can either hire a personal dispatcher or contact a trucking dispatching service. Their job is to connect you to shippers, help with paperwork and accounting, and manage the flow of your freight. Some will even record transport expenses like repairs, fuel usage, and mileage. Dispatchers will either take a percentage from each load or charge a flat rate as payment
Freight Brokers
If you are an owner-operator not looking to exclusively with a company, freight brokers are ideal. Their main job is to find a shipper with the highest price and an owner-operator to move it at the lowest possible rate. They can connect truckers with shippers, and determine load rates, times, and locations of jobs. They typically charge 15-25% of the profit from the load as a fee.
Government Contracts
Government entities frequently outsource work to freighting companies. The owner-operator must register as a company on the U.S. General Services Administration website to obtain a government contract. Being contracted jobs depends on the security clearance required and is on a bidding system. A well-known example of government work is USPS, although many others have good pay and stable work.
Cold Calling/Load Prospecting
This system involves making calls and reaching out to shipping companies personally. To start, research shippers in your area and contact them to see if they need help delivering their goods. It is common to have them say no, but persistence is key to finding work. Many companies would be happy to hire the extra help and both sides would benefit from the partnership. This can be a great way to create personal and lasting relationships with businesses. It can take a long time to get started, but the rewards are great.
Networking as an Owner-Operator
This one goes overlooked a lot. It is extremely important to have connections in the freighting industry. So get involved with local events and make face with potential clients. Keep your eyes out for open events that businesses are hosting and attend them. Doing this will let you meet people within the job market and discuss current trends and advice on how to grow your own business. Remember to always be kind and professional. The image that you present goes a long way with potential clients.
Owner-Operator Tips and Tricks
Be sure to not take loads that lose the company money. You might be tempted to take jobs that have a negative profit to get your name out there, but it is not worth it in the long run. Instead, diversify how you find jobs and keep the income flowing. Prevent dead-head miles by carrying freight back to your initial delivery point after dropping off a haul. This allows you to keep making money while driving instead of driving back empty-handed and wasting gas and hours. Stay consistent, carry business cards with you, and always be professional. This cannot be stated enough. By trying out all of these tactics and seeing what works for you and your company, you will be well on your way to seeing your business thrive!
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