Do you have to sign up for all each shipper when using Dat load board?

When I was using the load boards you called on a load and haggled over a rate. Now it seems everyone wants a bid.That may be what they mean.

 

They may think your just snooping for info. No reason to negotiate with you if it’s for entertainment purposes only.

 

It's normal. You have to get set up with every brokerage company. It's called a carrier packet. Usually they ask for your MC over the phone to see if you're even eligible.

Just call them, say you're interested in the load from A to B, you got any details? Find out what it is, tarped, chains, strap and go, scale out, etc. Then ask the rate, or better yet, tell them what you'll haul it for, and see what they say. Good practice while you wait on your numbers.

If they ask for your MC right off the bat, just end the conversation.

 

Moe, you are about to have to do a bunch of carrier packets. It's boring, repetitive office work. Get ready. You can simplify it some if you're good with a computer, or you can do a lot of printing, writing, scanning, emailing, calling insurance agent, etc.

 

Since you do not have authority it is for entertainment purposes at this point, and is wasting brokers time.

 

To ad on to what God Prefers Diesel said... The cool thing is, many brokers use dat carrier or other carrier registration services so once you do a few carrier packs it is as simple as reviewing what you’ve already submitted and updating or submitting your W9.

Some of the smaller brokerages have very simple one or two page packs and others you will feel like you are buying a house.

I use Truckstop as a load board and one thing I did not know is when you click on a load the broker can see it and look up your contact and call you. I was getting calls before my authority was active. ( DAT i don’t believe does that) I used that to make contacts and break the ice with some of the brokers. Of course some hung up on me as soon as I said I was not active yet (it’s all business and they are trying to find a carrier ASAP) some chatted for a few asked my background and then sent me carrier packs for when I was ready. I got loads from those contact ASAP when I did go active. So,e people hate brokers calling but I don’t mind especially if you are in first 30/60/90.
You will get talk to brokers you probably don’t want to work with and you can tell by looking at a lot of posted rates and you can also tell those you may want to work with. Maybe get a disposable phone and call with that as some will remember your number or town your calling from if smaller so don’t burn bridges .