14 Best Conestoga Trailer Load Boards

Conestoga trailers or curtained trailers are specialist trailers that can combine some of the advantages of both flatbeds and dry vans. They provide a flexible trailer that can be loaded from three sides but also provide much of the same protection that a dry van does.

Conestoga trailers are a flatbed style of trailer with a roof and curtain sides which provide protection from the elements and security for the loads they carry.

Conestoga trailer load boards are a great place to post loads to find carriers as well as for carriers to seek out loads that match their requirements. They can help both shippers and carriers streamline their processes in getting loads arranged and improve efficiency.

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The table below shows a quick price comparison of all the load board solutions that we’ve researched:

Company name	Monthly cost	Free plan
Loadup	From free	Free for shippers and some carriers
FreightFinder.com	From free	Free to use
Brokered Loads	Not stated	No
Buchanan Logistics	Not stated	No
Greenbush Logistics	Not stated	No
Harte Hanks	Not stated	No
Jones Logistics	Not stated	No
Maverick Transportation	Not stated	Free to use
Mercer Transportation	Not stated	No
Online Freight Services	Not stated	No
FindFreightLoads	Not stated	No
Circle Logistics	Not stated	No
Trucker Tools	Not stated	No
TQL	From free	Free to use

*The prices in the table above (where available) come directly from each company’s website and were accurate at the time of writing (January 2024). Since then, those prices may have changed.

We’ve listed the results of our load board research and the features of each company’s product in a bit more detail below. You’ll be able to see the benefits of their service and some general information about the company as well.

*companies are ranked in no particular order.

1. Loadup

Loadup offers freight services across the world through two load boards, one for the US and Canada and another for the rest of the world.

Shippers can access their load board for free
Some carriers with certain trucks can also access the load board for free
A membership fee applies to most carriers and they are required to register to access the load board
The load board is suitable for a variety of users including private individuals, brokers, manufacturers and movers
They cater for a broad range of equipment types including Conestoga trailers
You can search loads to find the best matches
As a member they provide unrestricted access which doesn’t require bidding or auctions and no commission is charged
Email alerts can be set up to notify you of suitable loads
They allow carriers and shippers/brokers to have direct contact
Membership includes a listing in their directory of couriers and haulers

Website: http://www.usacanadaloadup.com/

2. FreightFinder.com

FreightFinder.com offers a load board that is integrated with the LoadBoardNetwork and is designed to deliver services for owner-operators, trucking companies and freight brokers.

Their load board is free to use
Users don’t need an account to access the load board
Each day thousands of thousands are available
Their load board is designed to be secure and easy to use
Loads can be searched using equipment type, origin, destination, and radius based searches
Carriers are also able to post the availability of their trucks for bookings
You can personalise your load board experience
Offers access to additional tools including mileage and routing
They have created an industry directory of their members
They provide a range of industry tools including a refined industry search engine and a trucking job site

Website: https://www.freightfinder.com/

3. Brokered Loads

Brokered Loads is a subsidiary of ATS (Anderson Trucking Service) and they provide a load board in partnership with ATS Logistics and Sureway Transportation Company.

They offer a closed access load board with real time updates
It has been designed as a self-service system
Loads available include LTL and FTL suitable for a variety of vehicles such as Conestoga
They provide a network of vetted carriers
Carriers need to register on their website to get access
The load board is searchable using origin, destination, radius, equipment type, load size and date
Loads are added to the load board by them
Loads can be tracked through the load board in real time
Documents can be stored in the Customer Portal
Offers an integration with Transflo which improves paperwork efficiency

Website: https://brokeredloads.com/

4. Buchanan Logistics

Buchanan Logistics provides a load board that caters for the US, Canada and Mexico which is designed to offer a variety of freight to keep carriers’ trucks on the road.

They claim to offer a state-of-the-art load board for shippers and carriers
They have created a network of 9,000 asset-based carriers
They cater for a range of loads and vehicles including Conestoga
Carriers need to register on their website with the requested documents
You can search the load board to find the best load matches
They provide support in handling bids and RFQs
24/7 dispatching with after-hours support is available
Users can access credit checks
They provide a dedicated support team for users
Delivery quality is monitored

Website: https://buchananlogistics.com/

5. Greenbush Logistics

Greenbush Logistics offers freight management services that are designed to help carriers find loads to fill their trucks, and they have 15 locations across the Eastern and Southern US.

Their load board has been designed to improve the efficiency of load matching
They offer 200,000 loads each year
Loads are updated with active loads daily
Loads are available on a variety of lanes
Loads are delivered by their fleet and a network of carriers
They provide a network of vetted and approved carriers
You will need to sign up to gain access and provide proof of qualifications
Customised services are available for businesses
Shippers can access free quotations
The load board can be accessed online or on their mobile app

Website: https://www.greenbushlogistics.com/

6. Harte Hanks

Harte Hanks offers freight management services which include a transportation management system and load board that caters for North America, Asia Pacific and Europe.

They provide a brokerage service for loads
Over 9,000 trucking companies form their network
They offer a variety of loads suitable for vehicles including Conestoga
They claim to offer a cost-effective and transparent service
The load board is searchable by equipment type, origin and destination
They designed the load board to be quick and simple to use
Real time controls are provided to help you manage loads
Carriers can access shippers’ contact details to make arrangements
The load board can assist in monitoring your financials
They aim to improve process efficiency through automation

Website: https://www.hartehanks.com/

7. Jones Logistics

Jones Logistics offers freight services including managed transportation, dedicated operations and freight brokerage. They claim to be one of the US’ top 10 flatbed transporters.

Offers a load board to help shippers find trusted carriers
Supports carriers in increasing their income and loads
Their network provides over 26,000 carriers
Carriers need to be approved to access the load board
The load board is searchable by filters on equipment, location and date available
Load details include equipment type, distance, origin, destination and weight
Aids smooth delivery of loads through communication tools
Deliveries can be tracked through the load board
The platform can help with managing schedules, claim management and billing
Access to Quick Pay is available to enable carriers to be paid faster

Website: https://www.joneslogistics.com/

8. Maverick Transportation

Maverick Transportation provides transportation services that operate across the US, Canada and Mexico with eight offices across the US.

They offer a load board for carriers and shippers which is free to use
The load board is part of their Internet Truckstop Diamond Broker Program
Suitable for a variety of equipment types such as Conestoga
Specialise in construction and agricultural loads amongst other types
Loads are continuously updated
Consistent lanes are available
Their carrier network is vetted to meet stringent safety standards
The load board can be searched by date and sorted
Searches can be narrowed down by advanced search functionality
Information on loads includes full or partial load, equipment requirements, load rate, origin and destination, commodity and weight

Website: https://www.maverickusa.com/

9. Mercer Transportation

Mercer Transportation claims to be one of the largest flatbed, heavy specialised and dry van carriers in the US delivering services across the US for almost 50 years.

Experienced load board provider delivering over 500,000 loads each year
A network of over 30,000 carriers use their load board
Registration is required to gain access to the load board
Vetting takes place for carriers including safety and insurance
You can search their load board to find loads that match your needs
Assistance in managing loads is available from their Personal Load Coordinator
Shippers can access support from either their local agent or Regional Sales Manager
Shipments can be tracked in real time
Offers fast payment solutions to carriers
Access a fuel discount as well as discounts on tyres and servicing

Website: https://mercer-trans.com/

10. Online Freight Services

Online Freight Services is a freight systems provider that is backed by Echo Global Logistics which is designed to aid businesses in managing loads more effectively.

They offer a load board that is easy to use
They have a network of over 50,000 reliable and developed carriers
A broad range of customers use their load board for a variety of loads
Experienced provider delivering hundreds of thousands of loads
They claim to offer competitive loads
The load board helps support matching carriers and shippers
Out-of-hours support is available for users
Offers faster payment options
Incorporates TMSPro software that can issue invoices, handle collections and pay carriers
Offers integration with other apps and software to improve processes

Website: https://onlinefreight.com/

11. FindFreightLoads.com

FindFreightLoads.com has created a load board that harnesses artificial intelligence and machine learning to assist carriers in achieving the best load matches.

Offers a smart load board called RightNowLoads.com
They have made the load board free for shippers and brokers to post loads
Carriers need to pay a monthly subscription but no contract applies
Offers carriers a free three day trial
The load board is searchable to find the most suitable loads
Shippers can access a bulk upload facility
They provide direct access between carriers and shippers or brokers
Offers credit report lookup services
Factoring services are available
Additional services are available such as fuel discounts, mileage and routing services, weather and load conditions

Website: https://findfreightloads.com/

12. Circle Logistics

Circle Logistics is a freight provider that offers services through its fleet and a carrier network which operates through its load board covering the US, Canada and Mexico.

Their load board caters for independent carriers
Designed to make larger shipping opportunities available to smaller carriers
Access a variety of loads including Conestoga
They provide a choice of dedicated and traditional brokerage options
They operate nine offices across the US
Loads can be searched and filtered to find suitable loads based on location, radius and equipment type
Shippers can access personalised solutions
They provide visibility of loads through tracking facilities
They offer faster payments for carriers
Assistance with meeting EDI requirements is available through their latest technology

Website: https://circledelivers.com/

13. Trucker Tools

Trucker Tools has created freight management tools to support fleets and optimise supply chains with products that include a TMS, load board, dispatch system, ELD and telematics.

Their load board is called Book It Now
Provides a large network of 165,000 carriers and 13 million truckers
Sign up for the load board on their website
Carriers can easily search and book loads they are interested in
Quotes can be submitted and rates negotiated quickly
Loads are available on preferred lanes and you can save your preferred brokers
Offers load recommendations based on your preferences
Utilise the load board to view and manage your loads
Loads can be tracked through the load board
Access additional tools to support your business

Website: https://www.truckertools.com/

14. TQL

TQL offers brokerage services that operate across North America with 56 offices and they are an experienced provider having delivered over three million loads in a year.

Access a load board that is free to use
Provides over 65,000 loads each week
Offers loads using a variety of equipment including Conestoga
They offer loads on most modes including intermodal, drayage, ocean and air as well as offering FTL and LTL loads
Become one of their carriers by completing their online form
A vetting process applies to check certificates and insurance
Find loads that meet your needs and on your preferred lanes
Their dedicated Carrier Relations Team offer support to users
Access the load board through the web portal or mobile app
Provides payment options for carriers

Website: https://www.tql.com/

Conestoga trailer load board Q&A

What are Conestoga trailers?

Conestoga trailers are a type of flatbed trailer equipped with a retractable tarping system that provides cover for the cargo.

This design combines the versatility of a flatbed trailer with the protection of an enclosed trailer, making it an ideal choice for hauling goods that need to be protected from the elements but are too large or awkwardly shaped for standard enclosed trailers.

Key Features of Conestoga Trailers

Retractable Tarp System: The most distinctive feature of a Conestoga trailer is its rolling tarp system mounted on rails, which can be easily moved back and forth over the length of the trailer. This allows for easy loading and unloading from the sides or above, while still offering protection for the cargo during transport.
Flatbed Base: The underlying structure is a flatbed, providing the flexibility to carry oversized loads or machinery that wouldn’t fit in an enclosed trailer.
Side and Top Loading: Thanks to the retractable tarp, Conestoga trailers allow for side and top loading, offering greater versatility in handling different types of cargo.
Weather Protection: The tarping system protects the cargo from weather elements like rain, snow, and sun, reducing the risk of damage during transport.

Advantages of Conestoga Trailers

Versatility: They can transport a wide range of goods, including those requiring protection from the weather, oversized equipment, machinery, and sensitive materials that cannot be shipped on an open flatbed.
Efficiency in Loading and Unloading: The retractable tarp system simplifies the process of loading and unloading cargo, saving time and labor costs.
Cargo Protection: Offers excellent protection for the cargo against weather conditions and road debris, similar to an enclosed trailer, but with the flexibility of a flatbed.
Reduced Tarping Needs: The built-in tarp system eliminates the need for manual tarping of loads, a process that can be time-consuming and physically demanding.

Considerations and Limitations

While Conestoga trailers offer many advantages, there are a few considerations to keep in mind:

Cost: They can be more expensive than standard flatbed trailers due to the specialized tarping system.
Weight and Height Limitations: The tarp system and framework add extra weight to the trailer, potentially reducing the maximum allowable cargo weight. The height of the tarp system may also limit the height of cargo that can be transported.
Maintenance: The retractable tarp system requires maintenance to ensure smooth operation and to prevent leaks or damage to the cargo.

Conestoga trailers can come in many designs which include a base like a flatbed, step deck and double drop. Generally, they are available in lengths of 48 to 53 feet.

Why should you use a Conestoga trailer?

You might want to consider using a Conestoga trailer if you have a load that needs to be protected but isn’t suited to dry vans or flatbeds. For example, if you have a load that requires loading and unloading from the side or is a combined load that needs to be unloaded at different locations then a Conestoga is more suitable than a dry van as the load is more accessible.

A flatbed may not offer sufficient protection or security for your load and the Conestoga would reduce the risk of damage or theft.

Conestoga trailers are suitable for a range of loads which include a variety of cargo, steel, wood, heavy machinery and large items but not all oversized loads if they exceed the trailer size.

Do all Conestoga trailer load boards show rates?

Many load boards don’t display the rates for the loads and those that do tend to be in the minority. The reason for this is that a lot of the load boards are set up to be a competitive platform where carriers bid or quote for the loads and the shipper can select which they want to contract with.

This means that the shipper will receive prices for their load and can choose the most suitable.

If you are uncertain about what the rate for a load should be, some load boards can offer assistance like historical load rates and rate calculators. These are useful both for the carriers to work out rates and for the shippers to set a benchmark to measure bids or quotes.

Which load board pays the most?

You can’t tell which load board will pay the most but in most cases, the load board doesn’t determine the rates. The rates are determined in one of two ways: the first way is that the shipper or broker posts the load with the rate for load and the carriers accept the advertised rate or in some cases, they may negotiate the rate.

The second way is that the carrier finds a suitable load and bids or quotes for the load and the shipper or broker selects their preferred carrier from those that have submitted a bid or quote.

The load board can affect the price in one way only and that is the charges that they place on loads or for the use of their load board. These charges may be a subscription fee to access the load board although some are free to access, and the other type of charge is for winning loads which some load boards charge and others don’t.

Some load boards charge a combination of these charges. You should check what the load board charges before you sign up so that you can factor this into your rates.

Are there any restrictions around using a Conestoga trailer?

Using Conestoga trailers, while offering flexibility and protection for cargo, does come with certain considerations and potential restrictions. These can vary depending on the specific cargo, the regions through which the cargo is being transported, and the individual policies of transportation companies. Here are some common restrictions and considerations to keep in mind:

1. Weight and Dimension Regulations

The additional structure and tarp system of Conestoga trailers add weight, potentially reducing the maximum cargo weight that can be carried compared to a standard flatbed due to road and bridge weight limits.
There might also be height restrictions due to the tarping system’s framework, which could limit the size of cargo that can be hauled.

2. Cargo Type Limitations

While Conestoga trailers are versatile, they might not be suitable for certain types of cargo that require refrigeration or that are significantly oversized and might not fit within the dimensions of the tarp system.

3. Operational Restrictions

The retractable tarp system, although beneficial for loading and unloading, requires additional operational consideration. It may necessitate specific training or experience to operate efficiently and without causing damage to the tarp or the mechanism.
In areas with strong winds or severe weather, the tarp system can be more susceptible to damage if not properly secured.

4. Maintenance Requirements

The moving parts of the tarp system, including the rails and the tarp itself, require regular maintenance to ensure smooth operation and to prevent malfunctions that could delay shipments or damage cargo.
Regular inspections are necessary to check for tears or wear in the tarp and to ensure the integrity of the frame and rolling mechanism.

5. Route and Access Considerations

Some routes may have height or weight restrictions that could affect the feasibility of using a Conestoga trailer, particularly in urban areas with low overpasses or in regions with strict weight limits on roads or bridges.
Loading and unloading locations must be equipped to accommodate the Conestoga’s size and operational needs, including sufficient space for extending the tarp system fully.

6. Cost Implications

The initial investment and maintenance costs for Conestoga trailers can be higher than for standard flatbeds, which might impact freight rates and overall transportation costs.
Insurance costs may also vary due to the different risk profile associated with the use and cargo of Conestoga trailers.

7. Availability and Scheduling

Due to their specialized nature, there might be limited availability of Conestoga trailers compared to more common trailer types, potentially affecting scheduling and availability for specific hauls.