Free Load Board: Is it the Right Choice for Your Trucking Business?

Is a free load board worth the cost savings?

As an owner-operator or freight broker in a fast-paced, growing market, you have options when choosing a great-paying load or the right carrier for your freight.

One way to find the right load or truck to grow your business is a load board. With all the options available, it can be hard to choose the one that's right for you. Perhaps money is a top concern and you're tempted to choose a free load board. There are real benefits to saving money, but there are also things to consider before posting your truck or load on a free load board.

Below are the pros and cons of free load boards. Use this information to make smart business decisions early on to protect your truck, your future, and your business.

Free Load Boards: The Benefits

1. Easy on the wallet

This one is obvious: a free load board won't break the bank. You'll be able to access loads, trucks, and essential contact information for carriers and brokers with no upfront fee. If your top goal is to get loaded or post your truck for free, a free load board may be a good start.

2. Test a load board for your business

Maybe you're not totally sold on the idea of using a load board. If you work with a single broker who fills your truck regularly, or you call one carrier to move your freight, a load board isn't always required. But if you want to take on the spot market, you'll need one. A free load board lets you explore whether it's a worthwhile tool without committing long term.

Free Load Boards: The Risks

1. Lower number of loads and trucks

Some free load boards carry less capacity. You won't always get the quantity or quality of loads or trucks that you'll find on a larger board.

2. Free isn't always free forever

Some boards are free only for a limited time. They may give you a trial and charge you after 30 days or later. Always read the fine print before signing up.

Conclusion

Free load boards are a worthy tool to grow your business. With free access to truck loads, rates data, and quality brokers and carriers, you can make more money in the long run without paying for the board.

If you're looking for a load board to grow your business, Doft has a free fit for you. You get access to a large pool of legitimate, high-paying loads with brokers and shippers you can trust. Doft is a freemium load board — the core features are free forever, with optional premium features for power users.

What are you waiting for? Sign up now.