Brokers That Work with New Authority: Top 20 for 2024

Finding the Right Brokers for New Trucking Authorities

Finding brokers that work with new authority trucking companies can be tough, but it’s not impossible. If you are in a rush, here’s a quick list:

• CH Robinson
• Total Quality Logistics (TQL)
• Knight Transportation
• Lipsey Logistics
• Online Freight
• KCH Transportation
• Freight Management

Starting a trucking company is no small task. For new authorities, the challenge lies primarily in building trust with brokers. Many brokers prefer to work with established firms due to concerns about reliability and safety. This initial lack of a track record makes it difficult for new carriers to secure loads and get their business rolling.

However, understanding the ins and outs of load boards and forming relationships with brokers that specialize in working with new authorities can make a world of difference. By knowing the right places to look and methods to employ, new trucking authorities can secure those crucial first loads.

I’m Haiko de Poel Jr, and I specialize in helping businesses, including trucking companies, steer the complex world of establishing authority and finding cooperative brokers. From my experience in marketing and digital change, I’ve assisted many in overcoming these initial problems.

Understanding the Basics of Booking Loads

Booking loads for a new trucking authority involves understanding several key players in the trucking industry and how they interact with each other. Let’s break down the basics:

Carrier

A carrier is a trucking company or motor carrier that owns the truck and is responsible for transporting goods from one place to another. As a new trucking authority, you are the carrier.

Shipper

A shipper is a business that needs to move its products. They have the freight that needs to be transported and are looking for reliable carriers to deliver their goods safely and on time.

Broker

A broker acts as an intermediary between the shipper and the carrier. Their job is to find trucks for the shippers and freight for the carriers. Brokers are your customers, and building good relationships with them is crucial for securing loads.

Load Boards

Load boards are online platforms where brokers post loads that need to be moved, and carriers can bid on these loads. These boards are essential tools for new authorities to find loads and start building relationships with brokers. Popular load boards include DAT, Trucker Path, and 123loadboard.

Dispatcher

A dispatcher is someone who finds freight for a motor carrier. They can be either your employee or an external service provider. Their job is to keep your trucks loaded and moving efficiently.

Example: How These Elements Work Together

Imagine you are a new carrier with a truck ready to haul freight. You start by looking at load boards like DAT. You filter the loads based on your truck type (flatbed, reefer, dry van, etc.) and find a load posted by a broker from CH Robinson.

You contact the broker to negotiate the rate. Once agreed, you pick up the freight from the shipper and deliver it to the destination. Your dispatcher helps coordinate the details and ensures everything runs smoothly.

Understanding these basics will help you steer the process of booking loads and establish your new authority in the trucking industry.

Next, we’ll dive into the top brokers that work with new authorities to help you get started.

Top Brokers That Work with New Authority

Starting your trucking business can be tough, especially when looking for brokers that will trust you with their loads. Here’s a list of brokers that work with new authority to help you get moving:

CH Robinson

CH Robinson is one of the largest freight brokers and they are known to work with new authorities from Day 1. They have their own load board, making it easy to find and book loads directly.

Total Quality Logistics (TQL)

TQL also supports new trucking companies. They have a vast network and offer various types of loads, which can be a great start for your new business.

Knight Transportation

Knight Transportation, a well-known name in the industry, is willing to give new authorities a chance. Their extensive network can provide consistent work opportunities.

Lipsey Logistics

Lipsey Logistics is another broker that works with new entrants. They are known for their supportive approach and can be a good partner as you build your business.

Online Freight

Online Freight offers a platform for new authorities to find loads. They have a user-friendly interface, making it easier for newcomers to steer.

KCH Transportation

KCH Transportation is open to working with new trucking companies. Their focus on building relationships can help you grow your business.

Freight Management

Freight Management is known to collaborate with new authorities. They offer a variety of loads and have a reputation for reliability.

Landstar

Landstar works with new authorities across all their divisions. They provide a wide range of opportunities and support for new carriers.

JB Hunt

JB Hunt is another major player that supports new trucking companies. They have a large network and offer various types of freight.

Falcon Transportation Logistics

Falcon Transportation Logistics is known for working with new authorities from Day 1. They offer a variety of loads and are supportive of new carriers.

Hub Group

Hub Group works with new authorities right from the start. Their extensive network can provide ample opportunities for new trucking businesses.

US Logistics LLC

US Logistics LLC is another broker that supports new authorities from Day 1. They offer a range of freight options.

Coyote

Coyote works with new authorities after 30 days. They have a broad network and can provide consistent work once you meet their initial requirement.

BNSF

BNSF requires a 60-day waiting period before working with new authorities. Once you reach this milestone, they can be a valuable partner.

Nolan Transportation Group

Nolan Transportation Group typically starts working with new authorities after 90 days. They offer a variety of loads and have a strong network.

Allen Lund

Allen Lund also requires a 90-day waiting period. After this period, they can provide consistent work opportunities.

Ryan Transportation

Ryan Transportation is known for working with new authorities from Day 1, provided you maintain a good track record.

These brokers can help you get started and build your reputation in the trucking industry. Next, we’ll explore how to book loads with a new authority.

How to Book Loads with a New Authority

Booking loads as a new trucking authority can be tricky, but with the right approach, you can get started smoothly. Here’s how you can do it:

Load Boards

Load boards are online platforms where brokers post available loads, and carriers can bid on them. They are crucial for new authorities to find work.

Some popular load boards include:

• DAT
• Trucker Path
• 123loadboard

These platforms allow you to search for loads based on various criteria, making it easier to find work that matches your needs.

Search and Filter

When you log into a load board, start by searching for loads that originate from your current location. This is known as the load’s origin.

Next, filter the results based on your truck type (flatbed, reefer, dry van, etc.). This helps you find loads that your equipment can handle.

Cost Per Mile

Understanding your cost per mile is crucial. This is the cost of running your truck per mile, including fuel, maintenance, and other expenses. Knowing this number helps you determine if a load is profitable.

For example, if your cost per mile is $1.50, and a load offers $2.00 per mile, you’ll make $0.50 per mile in profit.

Negotiate

Once you find a load that interests you, it’s time to negotiate. Some load boards allow you to book directly, but it’s often better to call the broker and negotiate the rate up.

Here are some questions to ask during negotiation:

• What is the weight of the load?
• Are there any special requirements?
• What is the payment term?

Rate Confirmation

After agreeing on a rate, you’ll receive a rate confirmation. This document outlines the agreed terms, including the rate, pickup and delivery locations, and any special instructions.

Carrier Packet

Most brokers will require you to complete a carrier packet. This packet includes necessary paperwork, such as your insurance certificate and operating authority.

Onboarding

Some brokers have an onboarding process, especially for new authorities. This may involve additional paperwork and verification steps. Completing this process smoothly can help build a good relationship with the broker.

By following these steps, you can successfully book your first load and start building your reputation in the trucking industry.

Next, let’s explore some tips for working with brokers as a new authority.

Tips for Working with Brokers as a New Authority

When you’re just starting out, building strong relationships with brokers is crucial. Here are some key tips to help you steer this process effectively:

Transparency

Don’t try to hide the fact you are new. Being upfront about your new status can save you a lot of headaches. Brokers will find out anyway, so it’s better to be honest from the start. Transparency builds trust and shows that you are serious about your business.

“They are going to find out and you’re just going to waste your time and theirs,” says a seasoned trucker on a popular freight forum.

References

After successfully completing a load, ask the broker if you can use them as a reference. This can be invaluable as you build your reputation. A positive reference can open doors to more opportunities.

Professionalism

Always strive to be a professional in all your dealings. Ask lots of questions to ensure you understand every aspect of the job. Brokers appreciate working with professionals who are thorough and reliable.

• Make sure all your paperwork is clean, easy to read, and submitted quickly.
• Be on-time for pickup and delivery. Aim to show up at least 30 minutes early.

Punctuality

Punctuality is non-negotiable. Being on time for pickups and deliveries is crucial. It shows that you are reliable and can be trusted with future loads. Being early is better than being late.

Tracking Apps

Use their tracking app if they want you to. Many brokers require carriers to use tracking apps to monitor the progress of the load. This not only helps the broker but also demonstrates that you are compliant and tech-savvy.

Check Calls

Do check calls on-time if they ask you to. Regular communication during the transport process is essential. It keeps the broker informed and reassured about the status of their load.

By following these tips, you can build a solid foundation with brokers and pave the way for a successful trucking business. Next, we’ll address some frequently asked questions about brokers that work with new authority.

Frequently Asked Questions about Brokers That Work with New Authority

How do you find loads as a new authority?

Finding loads as a new trucking authority can be daunting, but it’s all about knowing where to look. Load boards are your best friend here. Platforms like DAT, Trucker Path, and 123loadboard are excellent starting points. These boards allow you to search for loads based on your truck type, origin, and destination.

Some brokers, like CH Robinson, have their own load boards, which can be a goldmine for new authorities. You can also check out brokers like Total Quality Logistics (TQL) and Knight Transportation, which are known to work with new entrants.

Pro Tip: Always check the broker’s credit rating before accepting a load. This ensures you’re working with reliable partners who will pay you on time.

Why doesn’t the broker work with new entrant carriers?

Many brokers are hesitant to work with new entrant carriers due to concerns about track record, reliability, and safety. New authorities haven’t yet proven their ability to deliver loads on time without issues, which makes brokers wary.

Some brokers have waiting periods of 30, 60, or even 90 days before they will work with new carriers. This waiting period allows brokers to see some operational history and assess your reliability.

Pro Tip: Be transparent about your new status. Some brokers might make exceptions if you show professionalism and a strong commitment to meeting their requirements.

Does Landstar accept new authority?

Landstar is one of the well-known brokers in the industry, but they have specific acceptance criteria. Generally, Landstar requires carriers to have been in operation for a certain period and to meet their safety and reliability standards.

If you’re a new authority, it might take some time before you can work with Landstar. However, focusing on building a solid track record and maintaining high safety standards can help you meet their criteria faster.

Pro Tip: While waiting to qualify for Landstar, consider working with other brokers like Online Freight or KCH Transportation, which are known to give new authorities a chance. This will help you build the experience and reliability needed to meet Landstar’s requirements.

By understanding these aspects, you can better steer the complexities of booking loads and working with brokers as a new authority. Next, we’ll dive into some practical tips to help you succeed in this competitive industry.

Conclusion

Navigating the trucking industry as a new authority can be challenging, but it is entirely achievable with the right strategies and partners. Understanding the basics of booking loads, identifying brokers that work with new authority, and mastering the art of negotiation are critical steps to success.

We’ve highlighted how brokers like CH Robinson, Total Quality Logistics (TQL), and Hub Group are open to working with new entrants. Additionally, using tools like load boards (DAT, Trucker Path, 123loadboard) and maintaining professionalism can significantly boost your chances of securing loads and building a positive reputation.

At Palmetto Surety Corporation, we understand the problems new trucking authorities face and are here to support you every step of the way. Our surety bonds are designed to help you meet regulatory requirements quickly and efficiently, ensuring you can start pulling freight without unnecessary delays.

We offer a streamlined process for obtaining surety bonds, backed by our dedicated support team and state-of-the-art technology. This means you can secure your necessary bonds swiftly and focus on growing your business with confidence.

For more information on how Palmetto Surety Corporation can assist you with your freight broker surety bond, visit our service page. We are committed to providing you with the best possible service to help you succeed in the trucking industry.

Remember: Persistence, professionalism, and the right partners are key to thriving as a new authority in the competitive trucking landscape.