How does one get a good truckload rate?

This is my first post, so I guess I'll introduce myself. Hi! I've been buying stuff to resell online for over 10 years. Recently I've decided that my basement wasn't a big enough area for me so I leased some warehouse space. I've struggled a little with the overhead but it's coming together. I love having a loading dock. I've taken on an employee since moving in so now this is a two man operation. Big time, eh?


I'm starting to buy by the truckload. My third truck comes tomorrow. The first one the vendor put together via CHR. The second one I called CHR for a rate and was about to go with them and then my Freightquote rep called and undercut them by a few dollars so I used FQ. I think I'm done with them as something always goes wrong when I use Freightquote. They have botched too many LTLs for me. Thus last time the vendor said FQ did not make an appointment when FQ claims they did and the truck was refused. This last time I called Schneider directly and asked them if they could give me a better rate than FQ since the middleman was left out. They did. After lurking on these forums for the last day I have decided that I will never use TQL. One must have integrity, after all.


As far as rates go, I imagine that you guys and I on different teams. You want to get paid more and I want to get paid less. With that said, can you give me any tips on getting a good rate? It also seems like there are ways for both of us to be happy. I make a point to be there when the truck arrives, even if outside my dock hours. I offer the driver a restroom and wifi while the truck is promptly unloaded. Currently I need 1 or 2 trucks a month and I am hoping that number grows. My lane is from LaVergn TN to Asheville NC. The gross weight is usually under 20,000 and I ship pallets of general merchandise. Should I establish a relationship with a company or O/O? Use freight brokers (seems like I'm just giving them my money if I do that)? Post on load boards? Keep in mind I'm pretty new to this and don't talk the talk. Any input is appreciated. Thanks!


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