How owner-operators find loads in the USA

Step by step

1. Work out your all-in cost per mile so you know which rates are worth taking.
2. Search load boards by origin, destination radius, equipment and pickup date.
3. Compare loads on rate per loaded mile, then add deadhead to the next pickup.
4. Before delivering, search from the delivery area for the next load.
5. Check the broker before booking: authority, payment terms and reviews from other carriers.
6. Rebook good brokers directly once you have a track record with them.

Lane guides for common US corridors

Distances, main interstates and backhaul options for lanes that owner-operators run:

• California → Texas
• Texas → California
• Texas → Illinois
• Illinois → Texas
• Georgia → Florida
• California → Arizona

Before you accept a load

• Price it against your own cost per mile, including deadhead to the pickup.
• Agree detention, layover and lumper terms and check they appear in the rate confirmation.
• Check how the fuel surcharge is calculated, if there is one.

• Accessorial charges
• Fuel surcharge

Where loads are concentrated

• Southern California ports and warehouses
• Texas (Dallas–Fort Worth, Houston, Laredo)
• Chicago
• Atlanta and Savannah
• the New York–New Jersey area

• California load board
• Texas load board
• Illinois load board
• Georgia load board

Frequently asked questions