Lehi Mon - Fri / 08:00 - 18:00 support@redballxpress.us (989)-391-5090

How to Find High-Paying Loads on a Load Board

February 20, 2026

In today’s competitive freight market, finding high-paying loads is the key to maximizing profit for freight brokers, owner-operators, and carriers. With fluctuating rates, changing demand, and increasing competition, simply booking any available load is no longer enough. The smart approach is to use a reliable load board strategically. Whether you are a new carrier or an experienced freight broker, this guide will show you how to identify profitable loads and how using the Red Ball Express Internal Load Board can give you a competitive advantage.

Blog Cover

1. Choose a Reliable Load Board First

The foundation of finding high-paying loads starts with the right platform. Many public load boards are overcrowded, and the best loads are often taken quickly.

That’s where using a trusted internal system makes a difference.

Red Ball Express offers its own Internal Load Board, where:

  • Loads are updated regularly

  • Verified freight opportunities are available

  • Competition is lower compared to public boards

  • Carriers and brokers can access quality freight faster

Using an internal load board increases your chances of securing consistent and better-paying loads.

πŸ‘‰ Explore our Load Board:
https://redballxpress.us/Load-Board

2. Understand Market Rates Before Booking

One of the biggest mistakes carriers make is accepting loads without knowing the current market rate. Freight prices vary based on:

  • Location (high-demand vs low-demand areas)

  • Seasonality

  • Fuel prices

  • Capacity availability

Before booking a load:

  • Check average rate per mile for that lane

  • Compare multiple listings

  • Avoid loads that are significantly below market value

When using the Red Ball Express Internal Load Board, you get access to competitive market-based freight, helping you avoid underpriced shipments.

3. Focus on High-Demand Lanes

Certain lanes consistently pay more due to higher shipping demand. For example:

  • Outbound loads from major freight hubs (Texas, California, Illinois)

  • Long-haul interstate shipments

  • Refrigerated and specialized freight lanes

To find high-paying loads:

  • Look for busy shipping corridors

  • Track which lanes frequently appear on your load board

  • Build a strategy around profitable routes

Our Internal Load Board helps carriers identify active lanes and secure consistent freight opportunities.

4. Reduce Empty Miles

High revenue is not just about the rate — it’s also about minimizing deadhead (empty miles).

Here’s how to improve profitability:

  • Search for backhaul loads before delivery

  • Plan your next load in advance

  • Focus on round-trip opportunities

With the Red Ball Express Load Board, you can quickly find return loads and reduce downtime between shipments.

5. Look for Specialized Freight

Specialized freight often pays higher than standard dry van loads. Examples include:

  • Refrigerated (reefer)

  • Flatbed

  • Oversized or heavy haul

  • Expedited freight

If your equipment allows it, prioritize these loads. They typically offer:

  • Higher rates per mile

  • Less competition

  • Better long-term contracts

Our Internal Load Board includes a variety of equipment-specific opportunities to help carriers maximize earnings.

6. Book Loads Early

Timing matters. High-paying loads are usually booked quickly.

Tips:

  • Check the load board multiple times a day

  • Set alerts if available

  • Contact brokers immediately when you see a good opportunity

Since the Red Ball Express Internal Load Board is updated frequently, early access gives you a better chance of securing premium freight.

7. Build Relationships with Brokers

The highest-paying loads often go to trusted carriers.

Ways to build trust:

  • Deliver on time

  • Maintain good communication

  • Provide accurate documentation

  • Be professional and reliable

Carriers who consistently perform well through our Internal Load Board often receive repeat opportunities and priority freight.

8. Negotiate Smartly

Don’t hesitate to negotiate when necessary.

Before negotiating:

  • Know your cost per mile

  • Consider fuel, tolls, and deadhead

  • Be realistic and professional

A well-informed carrier who understands market rates has a better chance of securing higher pay.

9. Maintain a Strong Carrier Profile

Brokers prefer carriers who:

  • Have active insurance

  • Maintain a good safety record

  • Provide quick updates

  • Respond quickly

Keeping your documents ready and your profile updated on the Red Ball Express Internal Load Board increases your chances of getting premium loads.

10. Stay Consistent and Track Performance

Success with load boards comes from consistency. Track:

  • Your average rate per mile

  • Profitable lanes

  • Best brokers to work with

  • Seasonal trends

Over time, this data helps you focus only on high-earning opportunities.

Why Use the Red Ball Express Internal Load Board?

Unlike crowded public platforms, the Red Ball Express Internal Load Board offers:

  • Verified and quality freight

  • Regularly updated load availability

  • Reduced competition

  • Faster booking opportunities

  • Consistent freight for carriers and brokers

If you’re serious about increasing your revenue and reducing downtime, our internal system is designed to help you grow your business.

πŸ‘‰ Access Loads Now:
https://redballxpress.us/Load-Board

Final Thoughts

Finding high-paying loads is not about luck — it’s about strategy. By understanding market rates, choosing the right lanes, reducing empty miles, and using a reliable platform like the Red Ball Express Internal Load Board, carriers and brokers can significantly increase their profitability.

In today’s fast-moving freight industry, the right tools and smart planning make all the difference. Start using a trusted internal load board today and take control of your earnings.