16 Best Load Boards For Tankers

Tankers are used to transport a broad range of liquid bulk loads which can include chemicals, gases and food-grade liquids.

They are specifically designed to deliver liquids with containers that are treated to handle liquids or gases that they are going to carry. They have a pump system that enables them to move the liquids effectively between containers.

If you own a tanker or have them in your fleet and you need more loads to keep them on the road and earning you money then a load board is a good place to find extra loads.

They are also great for shippers and brokers who need to find carriers quickly and easily as they only need to post the load and let the carrier come to them.

Disclaimer: Fleetlogging.com is a general business information website only. The material and information on this website should not be relied upon for making any business or legal decisions. We cannot recommend any company and/or product, nor assess your suitability for any product and/or company listed here.

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

Company name	Monthly cost	Free plan
Direct Freight Services	From free	Free account & free to post loads
Loadup	From free	Free for shippers and some carriers
FreightFinder.com	From free	Free to use
Buchanan Logistics	Not stated	No
Harte Hanks	Not stated	No
Online Freight Services	Not stated	No
Prime Inc	Not stated	No
Werner	Not stated	No
Schneider	From free	Free to use
FindFreightLoads	Not stated	No
LoadMatch	From free	Free plan and 30 day trial of the paid plan
C.H. Robinson	Not stated	No
Circle Logistics	Not stated	No
Fedex Custom Critical	Not stated	No
TQL	From free	Free to use
Bennett	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.

1. Direct Freight Services

Direct Freight Services provides freight services that are designed to bring together drivers, shippers and brokers across the US.

Their load board offers a range of loads including tankers
No account is needed to access the load board
Loads can be posted for free by shippers and brokers
Free accounts are available to carriers so they can contact shippers and brokers
Access 300,000 loads each day
The load board can be searched using their improved load filtering and custom columns
Create load alerts by email or text for suitable loads
Tools are available to help with planning and routes including weather forecasts
Utilise their driver app to access the load board from anywhere
Confidence can be built with access to full credit reports and scores

Website: https://www.directfreight.com/

2. Loadup

Loadup is an international load board provider that offers two loads boards that cater for two geographical areas, one for the US and Canada and the second for the rest of the world.

Shippers can use the load board for free
A membership fee applies for carriers unless they have certain truck types
They cater for a variety of users including freight brokers, carriers, private individuals and manufacturers
Carriers need to register online for their load board
The load board is searchable for the most suitable loads
They provide a load board that has no bidding or auctions and no commission is charged
Load information is detailed including the vehicle required
Load alerts can be set up by email for loads that match your requirements
They enable carriers, shippers and brokers to have direct contact
They produce a courier and hauler member directory in which members can be listed

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

3. FreightFinder.com

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

Their load board is free to use
You don’t need to have an account to access the load board
Each day they have thousands of loads available
The load board can be personalised for your experience
Find suitable loads by searching by origin, destination, radius and equipment
Once you find loads you can communicate directly with the load owner
Truck availability can also be posted by carriers
Mileage and routing tools are available to support users
They have created an industry directory
They also support the industry with a refined industry search engine and a trucking job site

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

4. Buchanan Logistics

Buchanan Logistics offers logistics services which include a load board that assists carriers in keeping their vehicles full and they operate across the US, Canada and Mexico.

They claim to have a state-of-the-art load board
They provide a network of 9,000 asset-based carriers
Register with them online with the required supporting documentation
They cater for a variety of equipment types including tankers
You can find suitable loads through their searches
Users are supported by their dedicated support team
24/7 dispatching is available with support
They provide assistance with handling bids and RFQs
You can conduct customer credit checks
They monitor the quality of delivery

Website: https://buchananlogistics.com/

5. Harte Hanks

Harte Hanks provides specialist freight management services which include a TMS and load board which covers North America, Europe and the Asia Pacific.

They provide a brokerage service for shippers
They have a network of over 9,000 trucking companies
Caters for a range of load types which includes tankers
They claim to offer a cost-effective and transparent service
The load board is searchable by equipment, origin and destination
It has been designed to be easy and quick to find and book loads
They provide real-time controls to assist you in managing your loads
Carriers can contact shippers directly
The load board can also help you track your financials
You can benefit from process automation which can assist with improved efficiency

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

6. Online Freight Services

Online Freight Services is a freight services provider that is backed by Echo Global Logistics and they aim to help their users manage their shipments or loads more effectively.

They offer a load board that is easy to use
They have developed a reliable network of carriers with over 50,000 carriers
They have a customer base which provides a variety of loads including tanker loads
It is a self-service online portal for shippers and carriers
They claim that their loads provide competitive rates
You can find loads easily and check their status
They provide support out-of-hours to their users
Offers faster payment options for carriers
Integrations are available that can help with streamlining and improving processes
Also provides assistance with invoice issuing, handling collections and paying carriers through its TMSPro software

Website: https://onlinefreight.com/

7. Prime Inc

Prime Inc claims to be one of America’s largest freight trucking operations and transport companies that provides freight services from its four locations.

They offer a load board that provides flexible load options
Their network is composed of 9,000 truck drivers
Operates across the US, Canada and Mexico
Access the load board by signing up online
Carriers will be vetted to see that they meet their criteria before access is given
The load board can be accessed through their website or mobile app
Support is available for users 24/7 over the phone
Carriers are paid weekly for loads
Users can access reduced fuel costs
They provide a variety of amenities at their sites which carriers can use such as doctor’s offices, training centres, stores, salons and spas

Website: https://www.primeinc.com/

8. Werner

Werner offers a range of freight options to businesses across the world and they claim to be one of the US’ five largest truckload carriers.

Their load board is called Werner Bridge and it caters for shippers and carriers
Over 35,000 carriers are part of their carrier network
They facilitate a variety of loads which include tanker loads
Complete an online form to register with them to become part of their carrier network
Carriers will be vetted to check they meet the required standards
Loads can be searched by date, origin, destination and equipment
You can find loads on your preferred lanes
Immediate response is provided to shippers for quotes
The load board manages all transactions and communications
Their dashboard helps keep you informed with real time tracking and more

Website: https://www.werner.com/

9. Schneider

Schneider provides freight solutions for businesses which include a load board that aids carriers in finding loads to fill their trucks and increase revenue.

Their load board is called Schneider FreightPower which is free to use
Thousands of loads are available daily
They offer a range of loads including tanker loads
Register on their website to become a carrier
Carriers will be checked for their suitability
They offer enhanced filtering to search for loads, the ability to watch loads, select preferred lanes and receive load recommendations
The load board is easy to use to find and book loads
Accessible through their web portal or mobile app
Flexible payment options are available to carriers
They also offer discounts on fuel, tyres, maintenance and roadside assistance

Website: https://schneider.com/

10. FindFreightLoads.com

FindFreightLoads.com has developed a load board that utilises machine learning and artificial intelligence to bring together carriers with loads from shippers.

They offer a load board that is called RightNowLoad.com
Brokers and shippers can access the load board for free to post loads
Carriers need to pay a monthly fee to access the load board but they don’t tie you into a contract
They offer a free trial for carriers that is for three days
The load board can be easily searched to find the most suitable loads
Carriers, shippers and manufacturers can directly contact each other to improve communications
Credit report lookups are available for carriers
Shippers can utilise their bulk upload facility for loads
Offers a factoring service for users
Access other services such as fuel discounts, mileage and routing services, weather and load conditions information

Website: https://findfreightloads.com/

11. LoadMatch

LoadMatch offers a load board service that has been designed to share information on loads, equipment and trucks between carriers and shippers or brokers.

Their load board offers two plans which include a free plan
A free trial is available of their paid plan for 30 days
Operates across North America
The load board is designed to assist carriers, freight forwarders and freight brokers
Carriers can search for loads and post the availability of equipment
Shippers can easily post loads
You can get notifications for new loads sent to you
The load board is designed to help streamline operations and processes
They produce an Intermodal Directory in which members can get a free listing in
Their website also offers a Jobs and Resumes section

Website: https://loadmatch.com/

12. C H Robinson

C H Robinson provides a transportation platform that is a global service which handles $30 million of freight annually whilst claiming to be one of the world’s largest logistics platforms

They offer a transportation management system called Navisphere
Their customer base has 100,000 customers with a diverse range of loads
They have built a network of 96,000 carriers
Three tiers of plans are available
To become a carrier you need to register with them on their website
The load board helps automate, optimise and manage loads
Load owners can manage their quotes, purchases and invoices through the load board
It allows shippers to access carrier information, routing details and track loads
They offer faster payments through QuickPay
Offers fuel discounts to users

Website: https://www.chrobinson.com/en-gb/

13. Circle Logistics

Circle Logistics is an asset carrier and a freight broker who utilises its fleet and carrier network to deliver services across the US, Canada and Mexico.

Their load board caters for independent carriers
Designed to assist smaller carriers in getting larger shipping opportunities
They facilitate a variety of load types including liquid bulk and tanker loads
Provides both dedicated and traditional brokerage options
Across the US they have nine offices supporting their network
Loads can be searched and filtered on a range of factors including location, radius and equipment
They offer a personalised service for shippers
Shipments can be tracked with 100% visibility
Offers faster payments for carriers
They utilise the latest technology which can help you with your EDI requirements

Website: https://circledelivers.com/

14. FedEx Custom Critical

FedEx Custom Critical is a delivery arm of FedEx which provides specialist shipments for loads needing additional care and attention. They are one of North America’s largest time-specific, critical shipment carriers.

They provide a specialist load board for sensitive loads
They cater for hazmat, temperature-controlled, high security and disaster recovery shipping
They facilitate loads for a range of equipment including tankers
The load board operates in the US, Canada and Mexico
Specialises in healthcare, chemicals and government loads
Loads are searchable so that the most suitable loads can be found
Non-stop door-to-door services are available
The load board provides communication tools to support users and load delivery
Provides an owner-operator extranet specifically for their independent carriers
They promote safe driving and good service through their reward program

Website: https://www.fedex.com/en-us/custom-critical.html

15. TQL

TQL offers brokerage services across North America through their network of 56 offices and a carrier network which has moved three million loads in a year.

Their load board is free to use
They offer over 65,000 loads every week
Offers a range of modes which include intermodal, drayage, ocean and air as well as LTL and FTL
They cater for a range of equipment types such as hazmat and tankers
Carriers can join their load board by completing their online form
Certificates and insurance are checked before access to the load board is granted
Loads can be easily searched and you can find ones on your preferred lanes
Support is provided through a dedicated Carrier Relations Team
The load board is available through their web portal or mobile app
Offers payment solutions that enable carriers to get paid faster

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

16. Bennett

Bennett offers a load board to help companies across North America with transportation and logistics which they deliver through their network of owner-operators, agents and employees.

They offer a load board which caters for carriers and owner-operators
Over 3,000 carriers are part of their carrier network
They facilitate loads for a variety of equipment including tankers
The load board can be searched easily to find the most suitable loads for you
They provide a personal contact to assist you when required
Loads can be accessed either through the mobile app or sent by email to you
If you transport five or more loads per month for them you can receive a free ELD device
The load board allows users to track their shipments and receive proof of payment
Carriers can access their quick pay program which pays in three days
For a processing fee, faster payment solutions are available

Website: https://www.bennettig.com/

Tanker load board Q&A

What are tankers?

Road tankers are specially designed vehicles that have been created to transport a range of liquids and gases safely. Some tankers have been designed specifically for carrying particular substances such as chemicals and gases which require them to meet stringent for transporting hazardous liquids.

Tankers are loaded or unloaded by an air pressure or roper pump to easily and quickly move the liquid via a pipe to and from the tanker container.

Tankers can be used to transport a wide range of liquids and gases which includes LPG, LNG, diesel, jet fuel, chemicals, vegetable oil, wine, milk and even water.

Types of Tanker Trucks

Chemical Tankers: Designed to transport various chemicals, these tankers must adhere to strict safety standards to prevent leaks or reactions that could lead to hazardous situations.
Fuel Tankers: Used for transporting petroleum products like gasoline, diesel, and aviation fuel. They are built with materials and safety features that minimize the risk of combustion.
Food Grade Tankers: These are used to transport consumable liquids such as milk, vegetable oils, and juices. They are designed to ensure that the cargo remains uncontaminated and safe for human consumption, adhering to stringent hygiene standards.
Dry Bulk Tankers: Transport dry goods such as sugar, flour, and cement. They often feature pneumatic systems to load and unload the powdered materials efficiently.
Gas Tankers: Designed to carry liquefied gases under pressure, such as propane, butane, and ammonia. These tankers have heavily insulated and pressure-rated tanks to safely transport these volatile substances.

Key Features

Material Compatibility: Tankers are constructed from materials compatible with their cargo to prevent chemical reactions, corrosion, and contamination. Common materials include stainless steel, aluminum, and specialized alloys.
Compartmentalization: Some tankers have multiple compartments to transport different types of liquids simultaneously, which requires careful handling to prevent cross-contamination.
Safety Features: Tanker trucks are equipped with various safety features, including spill containment systems, pressure relief valves, and grounding systems to prevent static build-up. The drivers are also trained in handling hazardous materials and emergency response procedures.

Regulations and Safety

The transportation of liquids and gases by tanker trucks is subject to strict regulations to ensure public safety and environmental protection. These regulations cover vehicle specifications, cargo handling, driver qualifications, and transport documentation. In the United States, the Department of Transportation (DOT) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) are among the agencies that set and enforce these regulations.

Food-grade liquid tanker sizes can vary from 3,000 to 11,600 gallons. A typical liquid bulk trailer will contain 6,000-7,000 gallons.

Why should you use a tanker?

You should consider using a tanker if you are looking to transport large volumes of liquid or gases as they are the most economical method as they can hold large volumes without needing to containerise them.

They provide an efficient method of transferring liquids and gases from the storage container to the tanker and into another container when unloading using a pump.

If you are transporting chemicals and gases these will need to be transported carefully to ensure they meet the regulatory requirements, and an experienced tanker carrier will be able to help you in meeting these requirements.

Likewise, for transporting food-grade liquids, they have specific requirements such as needing temperature control and requiring evidence of not being tampered with, which experienced carriers can provide.

Do all tanker load boards show rates?

Tanker load boards like most load boards won’t necessarily show the rates for the loads.

Many load boards don’t display load rates because they prefer to allow carriers to quote or bid for loads so that shippers or brokers receive a range of offers to choose between which can provide more cost-effective rates. Displaying the rates wouldn’t stimulate the same level of competition for the loads.

If carriers need assistance in building a quote or bid then they may be able to access tools or information on their load board such as a rate calculator or historical rate information, but not all load boards offer this. Shippers can also utilise these tools and information to see what their load might cost so they have a benchmark to work with.

Which load board pays the most?

There are many load boards available and you probably want to know which will pay you the most but this isn’t an easy question as the load boards have little to do with the load rates. The shipper or broker sets the rates on loads where the rates are advertised and the carriers can decide whether to apply for the load or negotiate the rate.

On other load boards carriers submit quotes or bids for the loads and the shipper or broker will select the carrier that they want to work with. In neither of these cases does the load board influence the rate.

The only impact that a load board can have on the rate is if a fee is charged for winning the load. There may also be a charge for using the load board that you may also want to factor into your costs. Some load boards charge a subscription fee and others are free to use.

You should find out what the charges are and factor these into your rates.

Are there any restrictions around using a tanker?

The tankers themselves will have to adhere to a range of regulations and standards depending on what they are transporting. Those transporting chemicals and gases will need to comply with hazmat requirements which include displaying the hazardous materials labelling, staff training, shipping papers, emergency response procedures and incident reporting.

Those that are transporting food-grade liquids will need to ensure that they meet food requirements which can include transporting them at the right temperature, having temper evident seals and not exceeding the weight limit for vehicles of 80,000 pounds.

Here are some other key restrictions and considerations:

1. Hazardous Materials Regulations

Transporting hazardous materials (HazMat) requires adherence to strict regulations regarding packaging, handling, and transportation, including specific documentation, vehicle placarding, and safety equipment. These are outlined by agencies such as the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) and similar bodies internationally.

2. Driver Qualifications

Drivers must have a commercial driver’s license (CDL) with specific endorsements for operating tanker trucks and, if applicable, additional endorsements for hazardous materials. This often requires special training and passing additional tests.

3. Vehicle Specifications and Maintenance

Tanker trucks must meet specific design and construction standards to safely transport their intended cargo, including materials resistant to the cargo’s chemical properties and structures capable of withstanding pressure for gases. Regular inspections and maintenance are mandatory to ensure ongoing compliance with safety standards.

4. Load Limits

There are strict limits on the weight and volume of material that can be transported, which vary by region and road type. Overloading can lead to fines and increased safety risks.

5. Route Restrictions

Certain hazardous materials may be restricted from being transported through specific areas, such as densely populated urban centers or environmentally sensitive regions. Additionally, some roads and bridges may have weight restrictions that limit the use of fully loaded tankers.

6. Operational Restrictions

There may be restrictions on the times or conditions under which hazardous materials can be transported, such as avoiding peak traffic hours or extreme weather conditions.

7. Security Measures

Given the potential for theft or terrorism involving hazardous materials, there may be additional security requirements for transporting certain types of cargo, including secure parking and vehicle tracking.

8. Environmental Protections

Regulations often require measures to prevent spills and leaks, including secondary containment systems and specific procedures for loading, unloading, and transferring cargo. In the event of a spill, there are strict reporting and cleanup protocols.

9. Cross-border Transportation

Transporting goods across international borders involves additional regulations, including customs declarations and adherence to the transportation regulations of the countries involved.

10. Insurance Requirements

Carriers must have insurance coverage that meets or exceeds minimum requirements, especially for hazardous materials, which can pose significant liability in the event of an accident or spill.