New Authority Dispatch: What a Dispatcher Really Does
You've heard that working with a dispatcher can help your trucking business, but what exactly does a dispatcher do? Understanding the role of a professional dispatcher helps you decide if dispatch services are right for your operation and what to expect when partnering with one.
Ready for Professional Dispatch?
See how our team keeps carriers moving with quality loads.
The Core Role of a Trucking Dispatcher
A dispatcher acts as the business operations center for your trucking company. While you focus on driving safely and delivering freight, your dispatcher handles the logistics that keep your business running profitably.
Think of a dispatcher as your business partner who never stops working. They're building relationships, searching for loads, negotiating rates, and planning routes—all while you're on the road doing what you do best: driving.
Load Finding and Booking
The most visible dispatcher responsibility is finding and booking loads. This involves far more than simply browsing load boards.
What Load Finding Actually Involves:
- Load board searching – Monitoring multiple platforms for opportunities in your lanes
- Broker outreach – Calling established broker contacts for exclusive opportunities
- Rate verification – Ensuring rates cover your operating costs plus profit
- Broker vetting – Checking credit scores and payment history before booking
- Timing coordination – Matching load schedules with your delivery completion times
At We Have Lots Of Loads Logistics, our dispatch services include relationships with brokers we've worked with for years. This means access to loads that never hit public load boards.
Rate Negotiation
Getting the best possible rate on every load directly impacts your profitability. Experienced dispatchers know current market rates and have the negotiation skills to push for better pay.
Rate negotiation isn't just about asking for more money. It involves:
- Understanding current market conditions and lane-specific rates
- Knowing when to push back and when to accept
- Factoring in detention time, layovers, and accessorial charges
- Building relationships that lead to better rates over time
- Recognizing when a low rate is actually worth taking for positioning
Route Planning and Optimization
Strategic route planning reduces deadhead miles and maximizes your earning potential. Dispatchers think several loads ahead, positioning you for the best possible next opportunity.
Effective route planning considers:
- Backhaul availability from delivery locations
- Fuel costs and optimal fueling stops
- Hours of service management
- Shipper and receiver appointment times
- Weather and traffic conditions
Our nationwide dispatch coverage means we can find you backhaul opportunities across all 50 states.
Communication and Problem Solving
When issues arise—and they always do in trucking—your dispatcher becomes your front-line problem solver. Delays, breakdowns, appointment changes, and shipper issues all require professional handling.
Dispatcher Communication Responsibilities:
- Updating brokers on pickup and delivery status
- Negotiating detention pay when you're held at facilities
- Rescheduling appointments when delays occur
- Coordinating solutions when mechanical issues arise
- Maintaining professional relationships even when problems happen
Administrative Support
Running a trucking business involves significant paperwork. Many dispatch services handle administrative tasks that would otherwise consume your driving time.
- Sending and managing carrier packets
- Tracking rate confirmations
- Coordinating with factoring companies
- Managing appointment scheduling
- Maintaining broker relationship records
Why Dispatchers Matter More for New Authorities
New authorities face unique challenges that make professional dispatch particularly valuable. Without established broker relationships, building a consistent book of business takes time—time that a dispatcher has already invested.
Our new authority support program specifically addresses the challenges carriers face in their first year. We understand that new authorities need more than just load finding—they need a partner who helps them build a sustainable business.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do dispatcher services cost?
Most dispatch services charge 5-10% of load revenue. The actual cost depends on services provided and the dispatcher. Quality dispatchers typically generate enough additional revenue through better rates and reduced deadhead to more than cover their fee.
Can I reject loads my dispatcher finds?
Yes. A good dispatcher presents options and recommendations, but the final decision is always yours. You should never feel pressured to take loads that don't work for your operation.
How do I communicate with my dispatcher?
Most dispatch communication happens via phone and text. You'll typically have a dedicated dispatcher who knows your preferences, equipment, and preferred lanes. Regular check-ins keep everyone aligned.
Do I sign a contract with dispatch services?
Contract terms vary by company. Some require commitments, others work load-by-load. At We Have Lots Of Loads Logistics, we believe in earning your business through results, not locking you into restrictive contracts.
Will a dispatcher help me when I'm just starting out?
Quality dispatch services work with new authorities specifically because they understand the challenges. Our team specializes in helping new MC holders build their business from day one.
Disclaimer: Results vary based on carrier experience, equipment, lanes, and market conditions. The information provided is for educational purposes and does not guarantee specific outcomes.
Ready to Grow Your Authority and Run Consistent Lanes?
Experience the difference professional dispatch makes. Our team is ready to help you build your business.
Start Here: Carrier Onboarding