Table of Contents
Introduction
Load boards serve as online platforms connecting auto brokers with auto transport haulers, including shippers, carriers, and brokers. Auto brokers post transport job details, and truckers can book anchor load jobs, which are high-paying, long-haul gigs, and build shorter transfer gigs around them.
When choosing load boards, factors like subscription fees, negotiation options, rate analysis, pricing optimization methods, quick pay vs. factoring, load quantity and quality, update frequency, user-friendliness, credit ratings, consolidation options, decision tools, and automation features should be considered.
To make the most of load boards, input all relevant information, use automated tools, reject low-paying loads, manage your reputation, stay informed about credit ratings and rates, utilize alert notifications, and weigh quick pay against factoring.
SUMMARY
- DAT
- CarShipIO
- TruckStop.com
- 123Loadboard
- Central Dispatch
- Carrier by ACV
- Direct Freight
- TQL Carrier
Overview of Load Boards for Cars
How to Choose Load Boards for Cars
Pros & Cons of Load Boards for Cars
What to Watch Out For
Pro Tips
Recap
1. DAT
DAT combines 3 platforms into one with no search limits, broker ratings, and route optimization. Higher tiers access market data, more tools, and assurance features.
- Assures collection
- Optimizes fuel
- Offers tri-hauling options
- Filters preferred/blocked companies
- Provides real-time boards
- Alerts exact matches
- Limits features in the lower tier
- Results in lacking customer service for some
- Prevents brokers from immediate bookings
- Incurs price range from $85 to $180 per month
- Combines 3 platforms in 1 (Power, Edge, Express)
- Operates as a bid-only platform
- Increases tools across tiers
- Grants access to over 357 daily loads
- Includes a mobile app
>>>MORE: Load Boards for Brokers
2. CarShipIO
CarShipIO combines a TMS and load board into one, with no limits to access with both. It centralizes operations and integrates 35+ load sources. The basic plan still offers routing, tracking, and expense tools.
- Simplifies expense tracking with one-click functionality
- Provides asset tracking tools
- Offers trip management features
- Allows for custom notifications
- Includes live training and 24/7 support
- Supports software integrations
- Lacks intuitiveness when customizing expenses
- Experience lags with mobile app
- Incurs pricing range from $39 to $149 per month
- Integrates TMS and load board functionalities
- Grants limitless access to marketplaces/boards
- Provides load management and planning tools
- Integrates with over 35 load sources
3. TruckStop.com
With 200,000+ loads, TruckStop.com has a reputation for excellence. Limitless searches, instant booking, and QuickPay come standard. Higher tiers provide more optimization.
- Streamlines expense tracking with one-click functionality
- Provides robust asset tracking tools
- Offers efficient trip management
- Customizes notifications to your preferences
- Delivers live training and 24/7 support
- Integrates seamlessly with various software solutions
- Lacks intuitive customization options for expenses
- Experience lag on the mobile app
- Subscribe with pricing range from $39 to $149 per month
- Combines a TMS and load board into a comprehensive solution
- Grants limitless access to marketplaces and boards
- Includes load management and planning tools
- Offers integration with 35+ load source platforms
4. 123Loadboard
123LoadBoard is one of the most popular load boards out there, with over 350,000 users posting millions of loads per year. It’s got a great reputation for being easy to use, reliable, and having an effective set of tools and integrations. The large network and smart features like rate checks and mileage insights make it a go-to choice.
- Receive real-time load alerts for seizing opportunities promptly
- Utilize the rate check tool to optimize profits
- Benefit from mileage insights for route optimization
- Access visible broker credit scores to avoid potential issues
- Save time with electronic document capture and storage
- Tap into a vast network with abundant load opportunities
- Has limited rate sorting tools available on the standard plan
- Experience unexpected auto-charging after the free trial period
- Subscribe with pricing range from $35 to $55 per month
- Boasts a user base of over 350,000 individuals
- Provides 53 million loads per year
- Has effective tools, integrations, and extensive network
5. Central Dispatch
Central Dispatch is the largest auto transport load board with 40,000+ loads daily and millions per month. The huge network is why it’s so popular – shippers post tons of loads.
- Access multi-point route search functionality
- Utilize modern filter features for precise load matching
- Simplify invoicing with one-click invoicing
- Experience low and negative reviews
- Encounter frustrations with dispute resolution
- Find a lack of many optimizer tools found in other platforms
- Subscribe with pricing range from $59 to over $100 per month
- Enables posting of up to 40,000 loads at once
- Offers millions of loads available per month
- Remains popular but not highly rated, with a consensus on having the largest volume of loads but lack features
6. Carrier by ACV
Carrier is a new, app-based load board by ACV Auctions. It offers a steady flow of exclusive loads for transporting auctioned vehicles. Soft load reserving optimizes routes.
- Access auction vehicles for loads without pickup/dropoff requirements
- Utilize quick pay options for fast payment processing
- Receive real-time security alerts for modern load safety
- Obtain real-time pricing and status updates for better load management
- Offers fewer auto transport loads unlike some competitors
- Struggles with popularity among auto carriers
- Provides free access to the platform
- Develops by ACV Auctions and connects to its vehicle auctions
- Enables soft load reserving for extra flexibility
- Provides with load and route management features
7. Direct Freight
Direct Freight simplifies finding reliable, transparent loads. Easy-to-use tools like custom alerts and broker info help carriers find the right loads.
- Customize search filters to find specific loads
- Set up real-time alerts for immediate notifications
- Receive weather notifications to plan routes effectively
- Store documents with one click
- Access information about “days to pay” for better financial management
- Has a smaller load volume unlike its competitors
- Lacks pricing information
- Offers over 300,000 loads daily
- Has a reputation of transparency
- Provides broker credit, bond, and insurance information
- Equips a track and trace system for load monitoring
8. TQL Carrier
TQL Carrier is a free, private board from Total Quality Logistics posting 65,000+ loads weekly. One feature you need is its specialized load filtering which makes it great for your business.
- Have access to instant and phone booking options
- Avail a discount ELD (Electronic Logging Device)
- Integrate with TMS (Transportation Management System)
- Utilize specialized load filtering options
- Encounter bug issues
- Handle mostly non-auto loads
- Access the platform for free
- Explore over 65,000 loads on a weekly basis
- Take advantage of specialized load filters
- Maintain insurance coverage of at least $1 million
Overview of Load Boards for Cars
Shipping cars can be a lucrative business for auto transporters. But finding consistent loads takes work. Load boards make the job easier by connecting carriers with shippers and brokers.
With over a dozen major boards out there, it can be tricky choosing the right one. Load volume and quality can vary dramatically between them. You want a platform that provides consistent opportunities without breaking the bank on monthly fees.
The top boards like DAT and 123Loadboard post millions of loads per month. Even smaller niche options can provide tens of thousands of listings. With so many users and jobs, filtering tools are key. Look for options to search by factors like vehicle type, route, and rate.
Reputable boards also offer visibility into brokers before booking. Check credit scores, insurance info, and transport authority to avoid problems. Integrations with transport management systems take efficiency a step further. Features like digital paperwork, tracking, accounting automation are now common.
While load boards make the hunt for work simpler, they aren’t perfect. Watch out for dated or duplicated postings. Promises of unlimited high-value loads tend not to live up to the hype. Do your homework reading user reviews to get the real scoop.
With so many choices today, finding the right board is about focus. Clearly identify your transportation niche, route, and equipment to narrow options. Consider a free trial run to experience platforms first-hand. And leverage your fellow truckers who use boards to determine the best value fit.
How to Choose Load Boards for Cars
With so many choices, focus on a few key factors:
Consider Cost
Monthly fees range from free to over $100. Go beyond the sticker price and evaluate the included value.
Evaluate Size
More users and loads mean more options. But remember, popularity doesn’t necessarily equate to quality.
Explore Features
Look for automation, optimization tools, credit checks, etc. These features save time and prevent headaches.
Assess Reputation
User reviews highlight pain points. Ensure that the positives outweigh the negatives.
Seek Specialization
Some boards are better for general freight, but you should seek those with a focus on auto transport.
>>>GET SMARTER: Best Load Boards for Shippers
Pros & Cons of Load Boards for Cars
Pros
- Access loads from brokers and shippers in one spot, saving tons of legwork.
- Screen clients in advance, as brokers and shippers generally post loads.
- Optimize routes using planning tools, making multi-stop trips efficient.
- Automating operations with features like digital paperwork and tracking.
Cons
- Accumulate monthly fees, so it’s crucial to maximize value.
- Face competition on popular boards, which attracts more carriers and potentially drives down rates.
- Experience less control since you can’t vet every broker or shipper posting loads.
What to Watch Out For
Here are a few red flags to keep in mind:
- Be vigilant about hidden fees that might not be immediately apparent. Always scrutinize the fine print.
- Verify any claims of exaggerated load volume or quality by consulting user reviews.
- Be prepared for challenges in resolving disputes, as unresponsive support can lead to significant issues.
- Ensure that you update and maintain your listings regularly for accuracy to avoid dealing with outdated postings.
Pro Tips
Maximize your chances of success with load boards using these pro tips:
- Comparison shop. Evaluate multiple options to find the best fit.
- Leverage free trials. Test drive platforms before committing.
- Join engaged communities. Crowdsource advice from other truckers.
- Use integrations. Combine boards and tools for efficiency.
- Specialize when possible. Niche platforms provide focused opportunities.
Recap
Load boards for cars are digital platforms which assist to streamline connections between auto brokers and vehicle transport haulers, making the task of transporting automobiles more efficient. Some notable load boards in this niche include, DAT, CarShipIO, TruckStop.com, 123Loadboard, Central Dispatch, Carrier by ACV, Direct Freight, and TQL Carrier.
These platforms offer a range of valuable features, such as load posting, route optimization tools, and payment processing capabilities. When deciding which load board to utilize, it’s crucial to take several factors into account, including cost, platform size, available features, reputation, and specialization.
While these load boards undoubtedly simplify the process of locating and securing transportation jobs, it’s vital to conduct thorough research to pinpoint the one that best aligns with your specific business requirements.
