For owner-operators and small trucking businesses, booking partial loads—also known as Less Than Truckload (LTL) freight—can be an effective strategy to boost income and improve operational efficiency. LTL freight involves transporting smaller shipments from multiple shippers on a single truck, allowing you to fill unused trailer space and reduce empty miles. Here are actionable strategies to help you make more money by effectively booking partial loads on the load board.
1. Optimize Load Board Searches
To maximize earnings, it's essential to use load boards effectively. Many load boards offer filters that allow you to search for partial loads by weight, size, and distance. Utilize these filters to find LTL shipments that align with your current routes. Advanced search tools can help you identify partial loads that complement your full truckload (FTL) deliveries, minimizing detours and maximizing trailer space.
**Pro Tip** Use multiple load boards to increase your chances of finding high-paying LTL freight. Reorder the destination cities to be alphabetical. This will make it easier to identify which loads will work with your route.
2. Combine Compatible Loads
Strategically combining loads is key to maximizing revenue with LTL freight. Focus on booking shipments that have similar pickup and delivery locations or routes. Pay attention to weight distribution, cargo compatibility, and delivery deadlines to avoid conflicts and inefficiencies.
**Pro Tip** Keep detailed records of common shippers and lanes that regularly offer partial loads. Building relationships with these shippers can lead to repeat business and higher-paying loads.
3. Negotiate Better Rates
Unlike full truckload rates, LTL rates can often be more flexible and negotiable. Don’t hesitate to negotiate with brokers and shippers to secure better rates. If you can demonstrate reliability and on-time delivery, shippers may be willing to pay a premium for your services.
**Pro Tip** Use data from your past deliveries to justify higher rates. Highlight your punctuality, safety record, and flexibility to increase your negotiating power.
4. Minimize Deadhead Miles
One of the main advantages of LTL freight is the ability to reduce deadhead (empty) miles. Strategically booking partial loads for both outbound and return trips can help ensure your truck is earning money on every leg of the journey.
**Pro Tip** Plan ahead by booking partial loads that align with your backhaul route. Load boards often allow you to search for return loads, helping you reduce downtime and maximize profits.
5. Manage Time and Space Efficiently
Time and trailer space are your most valuable assets. Avoid overbooking or taking loads that complicate your schedule. Efficient time management and proper load planning can prevent missed deadlines and costly delays.
**Pro Tip** Use load planning software or apps to organize your pickups and deliveries. Proper planning ensures that each load is profitable and delivered on time.
6. Focus on High-Demand Lanes and Niche Markets
Certain lanes and industries consistently need partial load services. Industries like retail, automotive parts, and manufacturing often ship LTL freight. Targeting these sectors and popular shipping routes can help you secure steady, profitable loads.
**Pro Tip** Identify niche markets that require specialized transportation, such as temperature-controlled or oversized partial loads. These markets often pay higher rates for specialized services.
7. Build Strong Broker and Shipper Relationships
Long-term success in LTL freight often comes down to relationships. Building trust with brokers and shippers can lead to consistent work and better-paying loads.
**Pro Tip** Communicate clearly and provide regular updates on load status. Professionalism and reliability can turn first-time shippers into repeat customers.
Booking partial loads on load boards is a smart strategy for owner-operators looking to increase profitability. By optimizing your load board searches, combining compatible loads, negotiating better rates, and leveraging technology, you can turn LTL freight into a significant revenue stream. With strategic planning and relationship building, partial loads can fill your trailer and your wallet.