Have you ever been in a situation where you had spent hours waiting for a shipment demand so that your carrier space does not go to waste?
If so, you know how challenging it can be to optimize shipments and maximize revenue.
On the other hand, it can also be very tricky trying to find a carrier you can actually rely on, especially when the clock’s ticking on a delivery.
These challenges are the reason why load boards are becoming so popular among shippers and carriers. That’s where platforms like the uShip Loadboard come in: they help bridge the gap between those who need to ship their goods and those who have LTL space to offer.
Sometimes you’re the one hauling, sometimes you’re shipping something out, but either way, things might not always go to plan! Maybe fuel costs spike, maybe your truck isn’t full, or someone cancels at the last minute. It happens, and it’s frustrating.
That’s why you need a well-structured load board right now.
It’s a platform that allows shippers and carriers to connect, plan a consignment, and fill up every mile with purpose.
In this guide, we’ll share everything you need to know about load boards and how you can use them to maximize your hauls and save money.
Let’s get started!
What is a Load Board?
A load board is a digital marketplace that connects shippers with carriers and acts as a bridge between them.
This is a completely real-time process:
- Shippers list what they need to be moved.
- Carriers scroll through all the listings, filter by what works for them, and place a bid or accept the offer.
In other words, it’s a match-making platform for logistics activities.
It also makes Less-Than-Truckload (LTL) operations a whole lot easier:
Carriers can pick up multiple small shipments going in the same direction. So you can make better use of space and earn more per mile. And if you’re looking for affordable shipping services? You only pay for the space they use.
It’s a win-win for both!
Why Use a Load Board: Benefits for Carriers
If you’re a carrier, using a load board can provide you with a host of benefits, such as:
- Access to Thousands of Listings: You always have a job listing coming up, and you can choose from them instantly. It can be short runs, long hauls, or both.
- Reduce Deadhead Miles: You get to find return trips and nearby loads to avoid loss on idle trucks or empty containers.
- Simple Quote Submissions: Send your own quotes, negotiate on price, or wait for the right offer. Not satisfied with the quotes? Create your own shipment and invite bids. Simple!
- Smart Filters: Sort by load type, route, weight, pickup time, and more. Only see what works for you.
- LTL Shipments: Gather all the small shipments heading the same way. Fill up your truck, increase earnings per mile, and reduce unused space.
Why Use a Load Board: Benefits for Shippers
On the other hand, if you’re looking for affordable, safe, and quick shipping options, a load board has got you covered on that front too:
- Access to Vetted Carriers: You’ll find verified and trusted carriers who submit competitive bids for your loads.
- Cost-efficiency: You get the option to compare rates and select the best option based on value, not just the lowest price.
- Make Your Own Shipment: List your freight in minutes without any documentation. Perfect for both standard and LTL shipments.
- Real-time Tracking: Keep a continuous tracking of shipments and ratings. This ensures the trust and transparency you are looking for.
How to Use a Load Board Effectively?
Okay, so now that we’ve explored the benefits of a load board, let’s quickly explore how you can use it effectively:
How can shippers effectively use Load Board?
- Be detailed in your listings: Include all the important details—weight, dimensions, pickup, and delivery spots. The more info, the better!
- Pick the right category: Whether it’s furniture, vehicles, or electronics, choosing the right category helps connect you with the right carriers.
- Check reviews before deciding: Don’t forget to look at carrier reviews. It’ll help you make a choice you can trust.
- Track & communicate: Use tracking and messaging features to stay updated and maintain clear communication with the carrier.
How can Carriers effectively use Load Board?
- Set up alerts: Get notified when loads that match your routes and freight types are available. It helps you stay on top of things and never miss a good opportunity.
- Use filters: Narrow down your options by filtering loads based on things like LTL, vehicle type, or location. That way, you’ll only see shipments that fit your capacity and route.
- Bid competitively: When placing bids, factor in fuel, distance, and tolls. Keep your bids profitable while staying competitive.
- Optimize load stacking: For LTL shipments, stack smaller loads on similar routes to maximize truck space and increase earnings.
Your Shipping, Your Way!
Let’s be honest—shipping can get messy. Whether you’re trying to get something delivered or you’re the one behind the wheel, there’s always something that can go sideways. But it doesn’t have to be that way.
That’s where a good load board comes in: it gives you options and flexibility.
It helps you plan better, ship faster, maximize revenue, and keep your business moving without any hassle or the burden of creating your own shipping marketplace!
So if you haven’t tried it yet, maybe now’s a good time to start!
Take control of your shipments and shipping today!
Shipping just got a lot easier…
