FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Freight Dispatcher?
A Freight Dispatcher is person who is hired/contracted by a motor carrier to find freight for their trucking company using load boards or other sources. Freight Dispatchers are not Freight Brokers or Freight Agents.
Who is a Freight Dispatch customer?
A customer is either a motor carrier with an active MC Authority # or DOT #or an owner operator leased on to a motor carrier.
Can a Freight Dispatcher work from home?
Yes, this business can be worked from a home or small office. It is imperative to have a quiet, private space.
Can I be a part-time Freight Dispatcher?
It is recommended to focus on being a full-time Freight Dispatcher. Flexibility and availability will be critical to keep your customers profitable. This may sometimes include weekends and holidays, it just depends.
How is Freight Dispatcher training conducted?
Freight dispatch training is conducted LIVE via ZOOM videoconferencing. This makes for a much more personable and thorough training. With modern technology, it will be just like sitting in a classroom!
How Does A Trucking Company Benefit From Working With A Freight Dispatcher
A truck driver’s time is better served concentrating on driving and being safe! Because of mandated HOS (hours of services), time is precious! Instead of using allotted drive time to search for loads, a Freight Dispatcher can take care of this as well as load related issues and paperwork.
What skills do Freight Dispatcher need?
Freight Dispatchers must master the art of coordinating and being organized. Dispatching trucks can be hectic, so these skills are critical. Other skills are telephone etiquette, customer service and the ability to multitask.
What's the difference between a freight broker and a dispatcher?
A freight broker is a middleman between shippers and carriers. Instead of taking possession of the freight, the broker facilitates the pickup and delivery of the freight between the shipper and a qualified carrier (driver). Freight brokers also ensure the freight is transported on time and safely through constant communication with the carrier.
Freight dispatchers act as intermediary between the carrier and the freight broker. They negotiate loads available from freight brokers on behalf of the carrier and try to get consistently high paying freight given they will receive a percentage of the final rate.
How to become a freight dispatcher with no experience?
There is no formal education available to become a freight dispatcher. Therefore, there is no certification, license, or insurance required to be a freight dispatcher. A solid, structured training class from a qualified trucking professional will prepare a freight dispatcher.
Does a Freight Dispatcher require a license?
No, a Freight Dispatcher does not require a license, it is not a regulated role in trucking like a trucking company or CDL driver. Additionally, there is no certification or insurance required. However, a comprehensive training class taught by a trucking professional is highly recommended.
Do Freight Dispatchers need experience?
No, there is no prior experience needed but there is specific knowledge and procedures that you will need to obtain to be successful as a Freight Dispatcher.
How can I grow my Freight Dispatch business?
There are many ways to grow a Freight Dispatch business. Freight Dispatchers will need to network and connect with motor carriers and owner operators and highlight the advantages of working with a Freight Dispatcher. Marketing and promoting your business are key!
What do I need to get started as a Freight Dispatcher? Is the start-up expensive?
Freight Dispatchers can get started with low overhead. The essentials to start are a computer (desktop or laptop), smartphone, internet and the cost of a monthly load board subscription. Typical office supplies will also be needed as well as a good filing system. A fax machine and dual monitors are optional.
How Do Freight Dispatchers Find Motor Carriers (customers) For Their Business?
Freight Dispatchers must network, market, and promote their dispatch service as any other entrepreneur would. There are many options to reach out to carriers – social media being the most powerful tool. Additionally, email, text and telephone marketing will be necessary in obtaining carriers.
How Many Carriers Can a New, Single Freight Dispatcher Handle?
A beginning Freight Dispatcher should allow the necessary time to demonstrate efficiency in the day-to-day operations of dispatching. With this in mind, a new Freight Dispatcher should be able to handle 1-2 trucks initially and grow into dispatching for 4-6 trucks within a few months.
How do freight dispatchers get paid?
Independent freight dispatchers are paid a percentage of the load that they secure (book) for the carrier. Payout is typically weekly. The freight dispatcher would need to send an invoice. There are several electronic options for payment submission.
How to start freight dispatching business?
To start a business as an Independent Freight Dispatcher the business must be set up according to state laws. First, choose a name for the business, select and apply for a business structure (LLC, Inc, etc.) from the state, check local county/city requirement to operate a home-based business, apply for EIN from IRS, setup a home office, enroll in a reputable training class and then launch. Training and marketing will be key to the success of an independent freight dispatcher!
How much do independent freight dispatchers make?
The income that an independent dispatcher makes depends on 3 main factors (1) how many trucks dispatched, (2) the % rate charged per load, and (3) the revenue achieved weekly for each truck. The more trucks and the more revenue generated for each truck, the higher the income potential.
