Searching for Loads on LoadBoards

Simple rule I go by, if there not proud enough to post a rate its a wasted phone call.

Internet Truck Stop. Sort by rates

 

Nope, not a good idea.
@rollin coal posted many times about this. Maybe he feels like posting it again

 

I don't move if my phone doesn't ring. Specialize yourself. Get away from the pack. Charge enough on this load to get you home if it is a bad area....or at least enough to get out of the area.

Just my .02....I really know nothing and I am lucky that I like what I do.... and I am specialized...and very little debt so I can be choosy.

 

Yep. I do sort DAT by rates. But I'm just looking to see where they're at. Are they normal or are they up $500 today or maybe they're several hundred lower than normal? This is why it's important to always work the same regions and watch freight in those regions every day.

I cannot stress that enough. Pick a 5 to 10 or 15 states region within a 700 mile or so radius that has a decent balance of inbound and outbound freight and learn those lanes inside and out. Do not go on a wild goose chase to the west coast (unless of course west coast is your region)!

I don't call on those loads with posted rates. That posted price is an anchor point that keeps you anchored to the price point they want to sell it at. Granted, sometimes it might be good. Most times you're leaving money on the table though.

 

Does having direct shippers necessarily mean that you need to be 100% committed to them? Would it be all right to take a load from them randomly, as you feel like, without a contract demanding full commitment, just calling the shipping manager a day before and ask if they got anything going out the next day, and if it suits you, you take it or it does not work like that?

 

Yes, why not if you are not on a dedicated account. If you are referring to my post, I simply meant that sometimes loadboard can make you more money, than direct customer

 

So how long have you been a broker pretending to be an O/O? I am serious, this has got to be the dumbest thing I have ever read.
Correct advice is to get the highest price possible for the work. Don't fall for this garbage.

 

Part of it is to constantly look at the market and watch for the shifts. The vast majority of freight is regional. Learn what region fits you and your needs and focus on it. Don't be afraid to adjust your market accordingly. Be flexible and grow.