The short answer
A truck dispatcher finds and books loads for a carrier, negotiates the rate with the broker, fills out broker setup packets, checks the rate confirmation, handles check calls, and sends the BOL, POD and invoice for payment. An independent dispatcher works for the carrier and is usually paid a percentage of the loads they book.
A load, start to finish
- Plan. The dispatcher learns the truck's equipment, home base, preferred lanes, rate floor and home time.
- Search. They check load boards and call brokers for freight that fits the truck's location and schedule.
- Negotiate. They ask for more than the posted rate when the lane supports it, and include deadhead in the math.
- Approve. The driver or owner sees the pickup, delivery, miles, weight and rate, and says yes or no.
- Set up. If the carrier isn't set up with that broker yet, the dispatcher completes the carrier packet.
- Check the rate con. Times, addresses, reference numbers, detention terms and pay are checked against what was agreed.
- Stay in touch. The dispatcher answers broker check calls and tracking requests while the driver is moving.
- Get paid. Signed BOLs and PODs go to the broker or factoring company with the invoice.
What a dispatcher doesn't do
- Haul freight under their own authority. The load moves under the carrier's MC number.
- Act as a broker. A dispatcher doesn't contract with the shipper or take a margin on the freight.
- Book loads without approval. A good dispatcher never commits the truck without the carrier's OK.
- Drive the truck or handle compliance for you. Hours of service, maintenance and safety stay with the carrier.
Is a truck dispatcher worth it?
It depends on how you value your time. Searching boards, calling brokers and filling out packets can take hours a day. If a dispatcher frees those hours for driving, resting or running the business, and negotiates rates that cover the fee, it usually pays for itself.
Compare dispatchers on what's included, not just the percentage. See what truck dispatchers cost and how to choose one.
Truck dispatcher duties in one list
- Search and book freight that fits the truck
- Negotiate the rate with the broker
- Complete broker setup packets
- Check every rate confirmation
- Handle check calls and tracking
- Send paperwork for payment
That's the dispatcher job in trucking. Whether a truck dispatcher is worth it for you depends on how many hours those tasks take you now, and whether the dispatcher's negotiating covers the fee.
Common questions
Is a truck dispatcher the same as a freight broker?
No. A broker works for the shipper and earns a margin on the freight. A dispatcher works for the carrier and is paid by the carrier.
Do I need my own authority to use a dispatcher?
Yes. Loads are booked under your own MC and USDOT numbers.
Can a dispatcher work with box trucks and hotshots?
Yes. Prime Trucks Dispatch dispatches box trucks and hotshots as well as dry vans, reefers, flatbeds and step decks.