Is It Better to Have a Dispatcher or Find Loads Myself
Whether it’s better to hire a dispatcher or find loads on your own depends on your situation as a truck driver or owner-operator.
Hiring a Dispatcher
A dispatcher helps you find loads, negotiate rates, handle paperwork, and communicate with brokers. This saves you time and reduces stress. Dispatchers usually charge 5–10% of the load revenue or a flat fee per load.
Pros:
Saves time searching for loads
Negotiates higher-paying freight
Handles paperwork and communication
Lets you focus on driving
Cons:
You pay a fee from your earnings
Less direct control over load choices
Finding Loads Yourself
When you find loads on your own, you use load boards, brokers, or direct shipper relationships. This gives you complete control, but it takes time and effort.
Pros:
Keep 100% of the revenue
Build your own broker/shipper relationships
Full control over which loads you take
Cons:
Time-consuming to search and negotiate
Requires business knowledge and experience
More stress managing calls and paperwork
Final Answer
If you want to save time, reduce stress, and focus only on driving, hiring a dispatcher is better.
If you prefer keeping all profits and building direct business relationships, finding loads yourself may be the best choice.
👉 Many drivers start with a dispatcher to learn the business, then later transition to finding their own loads.
FAQs
Not all drivers do. Many beginners start with dispatchers for support, while experienced drivers often self-dispatch to keep full profits.
Most charge 5–10% of each load or a flat fee, depending on services offered.
Yes. Many drivers use dispatchers part-time and book their own loads when possible.
It can be, since you avoid dispatcher fees. However, if you spend too much time searching instead of driving, you may earn less overall.
For new drivers, hiring a dispatcher is often easier because it saves time, reduces stress, and helps them learn the business.