Definition:
A load board is an online platform or marketplace where shippers, freight brokers, and carriers post and find available freight loads and trucks, facilitating efficient matching for transportation needs.
What is a Load Board?
A load board, also known as a freight board, is a digital tool used in the logistics industry to connect shippers and carriers. Shippers and brokers use these platforms to list freight that needs transportation, while carriers use them to find loads for their trucks. Load boards often include features like real-time tracking, rate comparison, credit checks, and filtering by load type, location, or equipment requirements. They help minimize empty miles for carriers and provide shippers with access to a wider network of transportation providers, making the shipping process more efficient and cost-effective.
Use Cases of Load Board:
- Freight Matching:
Connecting carriers with shippers or brokers to ensure trucks are filled efficiently. - Reducing Empty Miles:
Helping carriers find backhauls or loads for their return trips to avoid running empty. - Spot Market Rates:
Allowing shippers and carriers to negotiate real-time rates based on market conditions. - Small Carrier Operations:
Providing independent owner-operators or small fleets access to freight opportunities. - Emergency Shipping Needs:
Quickly finding available trucks for urgent or last-minute freight requirements. - Route Optimization:
Enabling carriers to locate loads along planned routes to maximize efficiency and profits.
