Whisper3r

Last year, I worked with them for about 40-50 loads because they paid okay. Then they tried to file a claim on my insurance after a shipper error (wrong product on the BOL, which I had recorded). I was furious, especially since my insurance denied their claim after reviewing the evidence. I filed on their bond for triple the agreed rate, and soon after, a senior rep called me, trying to bully me. I told him exactly how I felt, and soon enough, I received a revised confirmation with the rate I was asking for. Never working with them again!

We’re seeing about a 90% acceptance rate with Trucker Tools for tracking, which is a big improvement from the 25% we had five years ago. Some drivers do turn off location permissions, so we have to remind them to turn it back on, but overall, it does the job effectively.

Yes, they’re definitely in a rough spot. They’re reportedly $20M in debt and unable to pay it back, with several rounds of layoffs, reports of a toxic work environment, unpaid carriers, and downsizing on office spaces. Their HQ construction has even been halted. Don’t be misled by their revenue numbers they’ve been losing cash, and I wouldn’t be surprised if they close soon.

An annual inspection is not the same as a DOT inspection. DOT inspections are performed by a DOT officer or Highway Patrol. You can go to a weigh station and request a voluntary inspection. Just make sure everything with your truck, trailer, and paperwork is in order, as they can put you out of service if something’s wrong.

Carrier Assure was started by an attorney, and you’re definitely not the first to have trouble with their system making you look bad. Personally, I think it’s too new of a company to rely on, and it seems a bit shady to charge you just to see what’s causing the low rating.

Honestly, with box trucks, your best approach is to get on the phone and connect with companies that have regular small hauls within your state. Don’t over-negotiate on rates box trucks aren’t in high demand, so when a load posts, brokers can get 50 calls within minutes. Instead, focus on doing an outstanding job: provide frequent updates on your location and status, like “on site,” “loaded,” ETA, any delays with an updated ETA, and proof of delivery (POD). If you handle this right, you may find a broker who’ll send loads directly to you rather than dealing with the flood of calls on load boards.

I get all of my hotshot loads through DAT. It’s a reliable option for finding consistent work.

It’s simpler than it seems! Remember, 1 foot = 12 inches. A standard pallet measures 48"x40", which is 4 feet by 3 feet 4 inches. If you’re loading partials, you can sometimes place them sideways and fit about 30 pallets in a 53-foot dry van instead of the usual 26. The trailer width is 102 inches; anything wider on an open deck is considered oversized at 8 feet 6 inches. I’ve been a dispatcher for 10 years, and I’ve never needed a special formula for linear feet. I usually just calculate and visualize how the load will fit.

Rule #1 for how to dispatch trucks successfully: communication is everything. Never lie to brokers, drivers, or anyone involved in the process. Clear and constant updates through text, email, or calls will go a long way.

It’s a tough situation. If they've decided to stop doing business with you, you’re left with limited options: File a lawsuit Use someone else's authority to book the load Neither of these is ideal, but there’s not much else you can do.

Working from home as a dispatcher, especially without experience, can be challenging. Part-time positions might be even harder to find in this field.

YouTube videos can cover the very basics, but most of the YouTube “dispatchers” I've seen are inexperienced or lack depth. To really get started, the first step is a DAT account. However, getting access requires setting up an MC (Motor Carrier) authority, along with active insurance definitely a complex but achievable process. It may be worthwhile for your dad to save a few thousand and open his own MC if possible, as a 20% cut, even with trailer and insurance included, is steep. You can find a solid dry van for around $1,000 monthly, or a reefer for about $1,500. Insurance for these larger, 53-foot vehicles running across the country shouldn’t exceed $1,500 per month. Dispatching isn’t difficult to pick up, but mastering it takes finesse. I started at 21 with limited English, so if you’re determined, you’ll do just fine. Start by getting that DAT account and making those calls. I even have an old guide on the basics of dispatching. Rates and prime areas change, but the fundamentals are consistent. Avoid paying for “courses” they’re rarely worth it, as everything you need to know is available online for free. 😉

Hi, I dispatch box trucks as well. Success really depends on a few factors. First, the type of vehicle you have matters if it's less than 18 feet, it’s tough to find good rates. But if you’re working with a fully equipped 26-foot box truck with a lift gate and pallet jack, you’ll have more options. Second, what kind of routes are you running local, regional, or over-the-road (OTR)? For example, local box truck work in Arizona or Florida is challenging, while areas like Chicago and New York have better opportunities 😉 Lastly, a good dispatcher is essential. If your current dispatcher isn’t finding you work, it might be time to switch. I work with box truck drivers in NJ getting $2.80 per mile, grossing between $2,500 and $7,000 weekly. Find a skilled box truck dispatcher this can make all the difference 🙂