How to Find Loads for New Authority Carriers

Finding loads for trucks for new authority carriers is crucial for establishing a successful and profitable trucking business. Navigating the logistics industry can be challenging, especially for those starting a trucking company. As reported by Truckstop.com, there are “approximately 350,000 owner-operators driving on America’s roads.” With so many smaller companies operating, it is extremely important to explore various strategies and resources on how to help new carriers efficiently find loads and build a strong foundation for your trucking company.

Using Load Boards or Freight Marketplaces

Load boards and freight marketplaces are distinct entities in the trucking industry. Load boards act as online platforms connecting carriers with brokers and shippers, offering a wide range of available loads and negotiation capabilities. These can also be described as freight marketplaces, and some may specialize in certain forms of transit, such as reefer trucking or any other mode. Regardless, they all focus on load matching and providing user-friendly interfaces, making them ideal for new authority carriers seeking efficient solutions and booking loads with new authority. 

Building Relationships with Brokers

Establishing relationships with freight brokers that work with new authority is another effective way for new carriers to book loads. Brokers act as intermediaries between freight carriers and shippers, connecting carriers with available loads. It is important to research and identify companies that work with new authority carriers. 

For instance, ask yourself, “does JB Hunt work with new authority? Or can another company be of more use?” Some well known brokers that are known to work with new carriers include JB Hunt, Uber Freight, Convoy, and Amazon Relay. Building strong relationships with these brokers can lead to a consistent flow of loads and long-term partnerships.

In addition, there are companies that exist purely to help new carriers get connected to brokers. Sign up for a platform like TrueNorth to get in front of 6,000+ brokers that have said they work with new authority carriers.

Networking Within the Industry

Networking within the transportation industry is crucial for new authority carriers to expand their access to trucking jobs and find brokers to sign on with. Attending industry events, joining associations, and engaging in online forums are all effective ways to connect with industry professionals and potential clients. Networking provides opportunities to gain insights, learn about available loads, and establish valuable connections that can lead to a consistent flow of loads. Additionally, leveraging social media platforms can be an excellent way to reach a wider audience and promote your services effectively.

Diversifying Load Sources

Relying on a single source for loads can be risky for new authority carriers. Diversifying load sources reduces dependency on a single client or platform and increases the chances of finding consistent loads. Diversifying load sources ensures a steady flow of loads and minimizes the impact of any individual source drying up.

Understanding Load Preferences

Understanding load preferences, your transportation carrier niche, is essential for new authority carriers looking to maximize efficiency and profitability. Load preferences include cargo type, distance, payment terms, and other factors carriers consider when selecting loads. Defining load preferences allows carriers to focus on loads that align with their capabilities and requirements, all while adhering to the guidelines set forth by the Motor Carrier Safety Administration. This optimization allows carriers to avoid wasting time and resources on loads that are not a good fit.

Leveraging Technology

Technology, such as mobile apps, plays a crucial role in improving load-finding efficiency for new authority carriers and owner-operators. Utilizing technology tools such as CarrierSource's free digital profiles streamlines the load-finding process for new authority carriers. Leveraging technology saves time, increases productivity, enhances overall service quality, and prevents transport challenges. 

Market Analysis

Conducting market analysis is vital for new authority carriers to identify high-demand regions or industries. Understanding market trends and demands allows carriers to position themselves strategically and target areas or industries with a higher volume of loads. Resources for conducting effective market analysis include industry reports, market research firms, and online databases. Staying informed and adapting to market demands allows new authority carriers to optimize their load-finding efforts and increase their chances of success.

Negotiating Rates

Negotiating fair and profitable rates is crucial for new authority carriers. Effective communication and professionalism are key when engaging in rate negotiations with shippers and brokers. Researching market rates, understanding the value of dispatch services, and communicating capabilities and requirements are important. Negotiating rates effectively ensures fair compensation for services and maintains healthy profit margins.

Get More Loads With Your CarrierSource Profile. 

Every registered motor carrier automatically has a free profile created for them on CarrierSource, a site where 200,000+ brokers and shippers are finding carriers every month. By claiming and updating your free profile, you’ll have an immediate online presence where future customers can find you and see what kind of business you do. You can also start gathering reviews from the customers that do work with you, so that prospects have more confidence in your business. Claim your free CarrierSource profile today!