Managing the shipment of oversized or heavy loads can be difficult as there are regulations that impact them and need to be adhered to. Therefore finding suitable carriers can be difficult so utilising a load board can be a great way to find carriers quickly and easily.
Likewise, load boards that provide loads for heavy haul trailers are a good source of work for many owner-operators and fleets. Being able to efficiently search for suitable loads makes it simple for carriers to keep their vehicles earning.
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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 |
|---|---|---|
| Landstar | Not stated | No |
| Truckstop | From $39/mo | No |
| Atlantic Logistics | Not stated | No |
| Forest Commodities Board | From free | Free to use |
| Jones Logistics | Not stated | No |
| Mercer Transportation | Not stated | No |
| Online Freight Services | Not stated | No |
| Bridgeway | Not stated | No |
| US Logistics | Not stated | No |
| ATS | Not stated | No |
| FR8Star | Not stated | No |
| Fedex Custom Critical | Not stated | No |
| BNSF Logistics | Not stated | No |
| Trinity Logistics | Not stated | No |
| Sureway | Not stated | No |
| Bennett | Not stated | No |
| Globaltranz | Not stated | No |
*The prices in the table above (where available) come directly from each company’s website and were accurate at the time of writing. 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.
Topics
1. Landstar
Landstar provides integrated solutions for the transportation industry which are asset-light and technology-enabled.
- They offer a load board for independent agents and owner-operators
- Over 108,000 trucks form their network
- Thousands of loads are available daily
- Coverage of the US and into Canada and Mexico
- Provides a variety of loads and equipment including LTL
- Posts are searchable for suitable loads
- Carriers can also post their trucks when they are available
- Receive notifications for loads that match your requirements
- Their mobile app is available so that it is accessible from anywhere
- Offers a range of real-time data such as pricing, capacity and in-depth analysis
Website: https://www.landstar.com/
2. Truckstop
Truckstop provides freight moving services that are practical and technology-enhanced solutions that support the moving lifecycle from matching loads to payments.
- Their load board supports carriers, shippers and brokers
- Has over 250,000 active users on its load board
- Over 80 million loads are available per year
- A variety of loads are available including LTL
- A range of plans are offered from a Basic to a Pro plan
- Allows users to search for suitable loads and post loads
- Access advanced tools such as heat maps and real-time updates
- The Pro plan includes carrier performance ratings
- Additional services such as factoring and cargo insurance are offered
- Access market insight to be more informed
Website: https://truckstop.com/
3. Atlantic Logistics
Atlantic Logistics offers a load board that has been designed to improve supply chains by helping shippers find suitable carriers.
- Their load board has a large network of carriers
- Over 250,000 shipments have been completed
- Offers coverage across North America
- In 2021 they were named one of the top brokers for the 5th time
- They offer a range of loads including LTL
- You need to register to access the load and will be vetted
- Loads can be searched and filtered by equipment, rate, origin, destination, mileage and dates
- Advanced technology is used to help with accepting and scheduling loads
- Provides a dedicated support team
- Quick Pay program is available to carriers
Website: https://www.shipatlantic.com/
4. Forest Commodities Board
Forest Commodities Board is a specialist load board created by the Forest Commodities to assist the Forest Industry to deliver their loads more efficiently.
- Their load board caters for the forest industry only
- Free to join and use for carriers
- Over 200,000 destinations are covered in Canada, the US and Mexico
- Register with them online to access the load board
- All carriers are vetted before joining the network
- Allows carriers to become one of the preferred transportation companies
- Designed to be easy to use
- Provides automated scheduling and invoicing
- Incorporates a dedicated messaging system to support users
- Additional functionality includes secure document transfer and the ability to dispatch sheets
Website: https://www.forcombo.com/lumber-transportation-board.aspx
5. Jones Logistics
Jones Logistics offers a range of freight services such as managed transportation, freight brokerage and dedicated operations.
- Their load board has a network of over 26,000 carriers
- Caters for a variety of industries including over-dimensional freight, heavy equipment, construction, oil and gas, raw goods and more
- You need to set up an account for the load board
- They will need to approve you before you can access the load board
- They aim to help carriers find loads that can maximise their loads and income
- Supports shippers in optimising their freight and finding suitable carriers
- Provides communication tools to assist the process
- Freight tracking is available
- Additional support for billing, managing schedules and claim management
- Access faster payments through Quick Pay
Website: https://www.joneslogistics.com/
6. Mercer Transportation
Mercer Transportation offers shipping services across North America and they claim to be one of the largest flatbed, heavy specialised and dry van carriers in the US.
- Their load board caters for the US and into Canada and Mexico
- Over 30,000 carriers are part of their network
- Over 500,000 loads are delivered each year
- You need to register online to access the load board
- Carriers will be vetted to check insurance and safety
- The online database is searchable to find loads that match your requirements
- Personal Load Coordinators are available to help manage loads
- Shipment tracking is available in real-time
- Local agents or Regional Sales Managers are available to support shippers
- Access discounts on fuel, tyres and servicing
Website: https://mercer-trans.com/
7. Online Freight Services
Online Freight Services offers a freight system that has been created to help businesses manage their loads or shipments more effectively.
- Their load board is easy to use to find loads
- Over 50,000 reliable carriers are part of their network
- Offers competitive rates for loads
- They have a broad customer base
- It is an easy to use and searchable load board
- Accessible through their self-service web portal
- They can help streamline processes and improve efficiencies through integrations
- Out-of-hours support is available to users
- Offers faster payments to carriers
- Additional TMSPro software available that can assist with invoicing, collection handling and paying carriers
Website: https://onlinefreight.com/
8. Bridgeway
Bridgeway is one of America’s largest specialty transportation providers that offers a range of freight services that work with an extensive network of owner-operators, agents and third-party carriers.
- Their load board caters for shippers and carriers
- Over 100,000 freight professionals are part of their network
- A wide range of loads are available including heavy haul
- They are experienced in handling some of the toughest transport challenges
- Competitive rates are offered for loads
- Register on the website to become a carrier for them
- Helps carriers find and manage loads
- Shippers can access safe and reliable transportation
- Offers a personalised service through their experienced staff
- Provides discounts on equipment and fuel
Website: https://bridgewayconnects.com/
9. US Logistics
US Logistics provides a freight brokerage service that covers the US and Canada and has a wealth of experience in delivering loads.
- Their load board has been designed to be easy to use
- Caters for a variety of loads and is experienced in oversized loads
- You need to register to become a carrier for them
- The load board is searchable by origin state and date
- Allows unlimited searches and loads
- Posts include trailer type, origin, destination, weight, length and contact information
- Monitor shipment progress through their tracker
- Support is provided by experienced operational leaders
- Quick payment options are available
- They aim to streamline processes and help with payments and invoicing
Website: https://www.uslogistics.us/
10. ATS
ATS (or Anderson Trucking Service) provides haulage services and a load that is designed to help carriers access loads more efficiently and effectively.
- Their load board is called ATS FreightMatch
- Over 5,000 customers utilise their load board
- Suitable for a wide variety of loads and equipment including heavy haul
- Complete their online form to access the load board
- You can search for suitable freight
- Loads can be filtered by rate per mile, total pay, trailer type and length of haul
- Loads can be booked easily
- Posts include full information about the load such as contents and directions
- They offer a user-friendly mobile app
- Aims to assist users with reducing overheads and simplifying logistics
Website: https://www.atsinc.com/
11. FR8star
FR8star is a transportation company that offers a trucking marketplace that is designed to match shippers and qualified transportation companies.
- Their load board caters for a variety of business types
- Three levels of pricing are available
- The load board covers the US
- Offers a range of loads and equipment including premium oversized
- They require bids to be transparent with no hidden fees
- You can search the load board by shipment type, location and load/unload method
- Support is provided to help shippers build loads
- Their freight experts are available to help with planning, booking and fulfilling loads
- Offers a range of information and industry insights
- You can expand the functionality of the load board by connecting it to other platforms
Website: https://www.fr8star.com/
12. FedEx Custom Critical
FedEx Custom Critical is a specialist over-the-road transportation provider that offers services that deliver extra care. They are one of North America’s largest time-specific, critical carriers.
- Offers a specialist load board
- They cater for loads needing extra care such as heavy loads, temperature-controlled, hazmat, high security and disaster recovery
- They offer loads for equipment like heavy haul and bulk freight
- The load board operates across the US, Canada and Mexico
- Non-stop door-to-door service is available
- You can search the load board for suitable loads
- Provides real-time tracking of loads
- Communication tools are built in to support users
- Provides an extranet for their independent contractors
- Carriers are rewarded for safe driving and good service
Website: https://www.fedex.com/en-us/custom-critical.html
13. BNSF Logistics
BNSF Logistics is a supply chain solutions and logistics provider that serves North America through their 25 offices and they are a subsidiary of Burlington Northern Santa Fe.
- Their load board is a partnership with Trucker Tools
- Over 300,000 truckloads each year
- Has a trusted and qualified network of carriers
- To use the load board you need to register online
- Safety documentation and qualifications will be checked before access is given
- Automated booking is available
- Provides a dedicated account manager to support shippers
- Freight tracking is available in real-time
- Helps with cash flow through fast payments and invoice monitoring
- Provides facility to control documents and securely store paperwork
Website: https://www.bnsflogistics.com/
14. Trinity Logistics
Trinity Logistics is a freight brokerage company that helps businesses improve their logistics and supply chains. They have been rated as one of the top 20 freight brokerage companies in the US.
- Their load board is a portal designed for carriers
- Thousands of shipments are available to users
- Provides a large network of authorised carriers
- Caters for a variety of loads including heavy haul
- You need to join their network but will be vetted first
- The load board allows you to view and search for suitable loads
- Submit quotes for suitable loads or book them
- Available equipment can also be posted by carriers
- Offers TruimphPay to provide faster payments
- They recognise carriers through a reward scheme
Website: https://trinitylogistics.com/
15. Sureway
Sureway is a trucking company that is a division of Anderson Trucking Service (ATS) and is one of America’s top 25 freight brokers.
- Their load board caters for carriers of all sizes as well as owner-operators
- A network of over 150,000 carriers and over 1 million trucks
- A couple of thousand loads are available
- A range of load opportunities are offered including heavy haul
- They cover the US through their network
- Complete their online form to become a carrier
- Allows you to search and book loads
- Consistent load options are available
- Carriers undergo regular paperwork reviews to ensure they are compliant
- Quick payments of three to five days are offered
Website: https://www.sureway.com/
16. Bennett
Bennett serves North America with logistics and transportation services through their network of owner-operators, agents and employees.
- Their load board caters for carriers and owner-operators
- Over 3,000 carriers form their carrier network
- They cater for a broad range of loads including heavy haul
- Searchable load board to assist in finding the best loads
- Loads can be found on the mobile app or can be emailed to you
- Personal contact to help you when needed
- Receive a free ELD device if you deliver five or more loads a month
- Offers shipment tracking and proof of delivery
- Quick payments are available in three days
- For a fee even faster payments are offered
Website: https://www.bennettig.com/
17. GlobalTranz
GlobalTranz provides freight and logistic services to shippers of all sizes and a wide range of modes through their network of carriers.
- Their load board is designed for drivers and dispatchers to find suitable loads
- Over 85,000 carriers make up their carrier network
- Over 121,000 customers use their load board
- A range of solutions are available including heavy haul
- Complete an online application to become one of their carriers
- Enables you to find loads in real time and manage loads
- Offers tracking facilities and performance reports
- Users are supported by a dedicated carrier relations team
- Allows you to manage payments online
- Payment can be made in 24-48 hours through Quick Pay financing
Website: https://www.globaltranz.com/
Heavy haul load board Q&A
What is a heavy haul trailer?
A heavy haul trailer is one of the largest transporters available which is designed for moving oversized loads. Heavy hauls are typically defined as a trailer or load that is over 8.6 feet wide, taller than 13.6 feet high and 53 feet long, or has a gross weight that exceeds 80,000 pounds.
They normally contain a heavy tractor unit attached to a multi-axled trailer which can come in a variety of axle categories that can cater for a range of different loads.
These vehicles tend to be very large and their loads often make it difficult for them to travel on most roads, so they are generally required to have a special permit and escort or pilot car to travel on the roads.
Why should you use a heavy haul trailer?
You should use a heavy haul trailer if your load is too big for a standard trailer, or the weight of the load is too much for a standard trailer. There are strict weight limits on trucks so this can often determine if you require a heavy haul trailer.
They are particularly suited to large materials and equipment such as construction equipment like cranes or bulldozers, and building materials such as concrete pilings or steel beams.
One of the advantages of using a heavy haul company is that they understand the restrictions and will take care of any permits needed for you and arrange escort vehicles.
Do all heavy haul load boards show rates?
There are many load boards available, and each operates slightly differently, this includes whether they include rates on their posts. Many of the load boards do not display rates for the loads available and carriers are expected to either quote or bid for the load. This is done to encourage competition so that the shipper or broker gets the best possible rate for their loads. If the load board displayed the rates it wouldn’t encourage this competition.
You can on some load boards get help in working out rates as some provide historical rate information and rate calculators. These tools are great not only for carriers to help them decide rates but also for shippers to work out a benchmark for their load to assess quotes or bids.
Which load board pays the most?
With so many load boards available it can be difficult to decide which to use so knowing which pays the most would be useful. However, the load boards themselves do not determine the rates of the loads.
The rates for the loads are determined either by the person advertising the load if they set a rate (although carriers can still negotiate this rate sometimes), or by the carrier bidding or quoting for the load. So the rate is determined either by the shipper/broker or the carrier.
The only impact the load board has on the rate is if it has any charges. There are generally two types of charges or fees that load boards use. An access or subscription fee, this is often a monthly charge to use the load board, however, some load boards are free to access.
The second fee is applied to loads that have been won and this could be a percentage or fixed amount included as either part of the rate to the shipper or applied on top and charged to either party, normally the carrier.
Most subscription load boards don’t charge a fee on loads won. The important thing is that you understand what charges and fees apply and whether you need to factor this into your rates.
Are there any restrictions around using a heavy haul trailer?
Yes, using a heavy haul trailer in the United States is subject to a variety of restrictions and regulations to ensure safety, protect infrastructure, and minimize the impact on traffic and the environment.
These regulations are enforced at both the federal and state levels, and compliance is essential for companies and drivers operating heavy haul trailers.
Here are the key areas of restrictions:
1. Weight Limits
- Federal Weight Limits: The federal government sets maximum weight limits for vehicles traveling on the Interstate Highway System, which is 80,000 pounds gross vehicle weight (GVW), with specific axle weight limits as well.
- State Weight Limits: States can set their own weight limits for vehicles on non-Interstate roads, which can vary widely. Some states may allow heavier loads with special permits.
2. Dimension Limits
- Height, Width, and Length: There are standard maximum dimensions for vehicles (including height, width, and length) on federal roads. States can also have their own limits for roads under their jurisdiction. Oversize loads often require special permits and may be subject to route restrictions.
3. Permits
- Oversize/Overweight Permits: For loads exceeding standard legal limits on weight and dimensions, a special permit is required. These permits are issued by each state’s Department of Transportation (DOT) or a similar authority. Permit requirements can include detailed route surveys, proposed travel schedules, and even escort vehicles.
- Annual Permits: Some states offer annual permits for carriers that frequently transport oversize or overweight loads within specific dimensions and weight limits.
4. Route Restrictions
- Limited Access: Heavy haulers may face restrictions on which roads they can use, especially in urban areas or roads with infrastructure unable to support heavy loads.
- Bridge Weight Limits: Specific bridges may have weight limits lower than general state or federal limits due to structural limitations.
5. Safety Requirements
- Flags, Lights, and Signs: Oversize loads typically must be marked with flags, lights, and signs to warn other road users. The specific requirements can vary by state.
- Escort Vehicles/Pilot Cars: For particularly large or heavy loads, one or more escort vehicles (pilot cars) may be required to precede or follow the heavy haul trailer to enhance safety.
6. Time and Day Restrictions
- Travel Time Restrictions: Many states restrict the movement of oversize or overweight loads to daylight hours and may prohibit travel on weekends and holidays to reduce the impact on traffic.
7. Insurance Requirements
- Increased Liability Coverage: Carriers operating heavy haul trailers often must carry higher liability insurance coverage due to the increased risk of damage or accidents.
8. Special Considerations for Hazardous Materials
- Hazardous Materials: Additional regulations and permits are required for transporting hazardous materials, regardless of the weight and size of the load.
Compliance and Enforcement
Failure to comply with these regulations can result in significant fines, legal penalties, and increased scrutiny from regulatory authorities.