The Most Popular Load Boards for New Authority Carriers

Mar 11
3 min read

Starting a trucking company with a new motor carrier authority can be exciting—but finding consistent freight can be challenging. Most brokers prefer carriers with established operating history, which makes it difficult for new authority carriers to secure loads early on.

This is where load boards become essential. Load boards connect carriers with brokers and shippers who need freight moved. With the right platform, you can quickly find available loads, negotiate rates, and build relationships that help grow your trucking business.

In this guide, we’ll explore the most popular load boards for new authority carriers and how to choose the right one for your operation.

Why Load Boards Are Important for New Authority Carriers

When you first receive your MC number and DOT authority, your network of brokers and shippers is usually limited. Load boards help bridge that gap by providing:

Immediate access to thousands of freight listings
Opportunities to reduce empty miles
A way to build broker relationships
Insights into market rates and lane demand

Many successful trucking companies rely on load boards during their first year in business to maintain steady cash flow.

1. DAT One

One of the most trusted platforms in the trucking industry is DAT One.

DAT has been a leader in freight matching for decades and offers one of the largest load databases in North America.

Why new carriers use DAT One

Over hundreds of thousands of loads posted daily
Real-time freight search by lane, equipment, and rate
Integrated rate analytics tools
Mobile access for drivers and dispatchers

New authority carriers often choose DAT because it provides access to a wide range of brokers who frequently post loads.

2. Truckstop Load Board

Another popular option is the Truckstop Load Board. It’s known for strong broker verification tools and an active community of carriers.

Key features include:

Broker credit scores
Load tracking tools
Integrated compliance checks
Fuel card partnerships

Many new carriers use Truckstop alongside DAT to maximize load opportunities.

3. 123Loadboard

123Loadboard is another well-known load board designed for carriers of all sizes.

Benefits include:

Affordable subscription pricing
Mileage and routing tools
Mobile-friendly load searching
Credit score tools for brokers

This platform is often considered a budget-friendly option for owner-operators just starting their trucking business.

4. Direct Freight

Direct Freight is popular among smaller carriers and owner-operators because of its lower monthly cost.

Features include:

Broker credit reports
Lane search filters
Equipment-specific load searches
Simple interface for quick dispatching

It may not have as many loads as DAT, but it can still help new carriers find steady freight.

How to Choose the Right Load Board

When evaluating load boards, new authority carriers should consider several factors.

Load Volume

Platforms with larger freight databases offer more opportunities to find profitable loads.

Rate Data

Tools that provide rate insights and lane averages help carriers negotiate better prices.

Broker Credit Checks

Working with reliable brokers reduces the risk of delayed or unpaid freight bills.

Mobile Access

Drivers and dispatchers benefit from apps that allow them to search loads on the road.

Many carriers choose DAT One because it offers all of these features in one platform.

Get a Trucking Insurance Quote from Wexford Insurance

New authority carriers need the correct insurance before most brokers will load them.

Final Thoughts

Finding reliable freight is one of the biggest challenges for new authority carriers, but the right load board can make all the difference. Platforms like DAT One, Truckstop, and 123Loadboard give carriers access to thousands of daily loads and valuable market data.

If you’re just starting your trucking company: