How New Carriers Can Get Their First Loads from a Load Board

1. Make Sure Your Authority Is Active

Before searching for loads, your business must be fully operational and compliant.

You should have:

• Active MC Number

• USDOT Number

• Operating Authority in active status

• Cargo Insurance

• Liability Insurance

• W-9 and company details

Most brokers verify your authority through the FMCSA system. If your authority is brand new, some brokers may be cautious, but many still work with new carriers — especially if you communicate professionally.

2. Choose a Reliable Load Board

Not all load boards offer the same quality of freight. As a new carrier, it’s important to work with a platform that provides:

• Verified brokers and loads

• Nationwide freight availability

• Real-time updates

• Quick booking support

The Red Ball Express Load Board helps new carriers connect with available freight and trusted brokers, making it easier to start generating revenue without long waiting periods.

Using a reliable load board also reduces the risk of fraud and payment issues.

3. Set Up a Professional Carrier Profile

Your profile is your first impression. Brokers are more likely to work with carriers who appear organized and professional.

Make sure your profile includes:

• Company name and contact information

• Equipment type (Dry Van, Flatbed, Reefer, etc.)

• Preferred lanes or operating areas

• Availability status

Keep your phone active and respond quickly to calls or messages. In freight, speed often determines who gets the load.

4. Search Smart – Don’t Call on Every Load

New carriers sometimes make the mistake of contacting brokers for loads that don’t match their equipment or location.

Instead:

• Filter loads based on your equipment type

• Look for loads near your current location

• Start with shorter distances if possible

• Avoid complicated multi-stop shipments initially

Choosing the right loads helps you reduce empty miles and manage fuel costs.

5. Call Immediately When You Find a Suitable Load

Loads move quickly, and waiting too long can cost you opportunities.

When you find a load:

• Call the broker immediately

• Introduce your company professionally

• Provide your MC number

• Confirm availability and rate

Example:

“Hello, this is [Your Name] from [Company Name], MC ######. I’m calling about the dry van load posted from Dallas to Atlanta.”

Professional communication builds confidence and increases your chances of getting booked.

6. Be Flexible in the Beginning

Your first goal should be to build credibility, not maximize profit.

New carriers may not receive the highest rates initially. Instead:

• Accept fair market rates

• Focus on completing loads successfully

• Deliver on time

• Maintain clear communication

Once brokers see that you are reliable, they are more likely to offer better-paying loads and repeat business.

7. Communicate Like a Professional

Good communication is one of the fastest ways to stand out as a new carrier.

Make sure to:

• Confirm pickup and delivery times

• Provide updates during transit

• Inform the broker immediately about delays

• Submit Proof of Delivery (POD) quickly

Brokers prefer carriers who keep them informed. Reliable communication often leads to long-term working relationships.

8. Plan for Backhauls

Profitability in trucking depends on minimizing empty miles.

After booking your first load:

• Start searching for a return load before delivery

• Use the load board to find backhaul freight

• Plan your next trip in advance

The Red Ball Express Load Board allows carriers to find return loads quickly, helping you stay on the road and maximize earnings.

9. Protect Yourself from Freight Fraud

Freight fraud is a growing concern, especially for new carriers.

Always:

• Verify the broker’s MC number

• Confirm company details

• Review rate confirmation carefully

• Avoid suspicious payment terms

Working with trusted platforms like Red Ball Express helps reduce these risks by providing verified freight opportunities.

10. Deliver Excellent Service Every Time

Your first few loads will define your reputation.

To build trust:

• Arrive on time for pickup

• Follow shipper instructions

• Maintain professional behavior

• Keep your equipment in good condition

• Submit paperwork promptly

Many successful carriers grow their business because brokers remember them as dependable and easy to work with.

Common Mistakes New Carriers Should Avoid

• Waiting too long to call on loads

• Accepting loads without calculating costs

• Poor communication with brokers

• Ignoring paperwork requirements

• Running long distances without planning a return load

Avoiding these mistakes will help you grow faster and operate more efficiently.

How Long Does It Take to Get the First Load?

Some carriers book their first load within a few days, while others may take a couple of weeks depending on:

• Authority age

• Insurance verification

• Location and equipment demand

• Response speed

Consistency is key. The more actively you search and communicate, the faster you’ll secure your first load.

Final Thoughts

Getting your first load may seem difficult, but load boards have made the process much easier for new carriers. With proper documentation, professional communication, and a smart search strategy, you can start building your business quickly.

To succeed:

• Keep your authority active and compliant

• Use a reliable load board

• Respond quickly to opportunities

• Focus on reliability and service

• Build strong relationships with brokers

The Red Ball Express Load Board provides new carriers with access to nationwide freight and trusted broker connections, helping you move your first load and grow toward consistent business.

Your first load is just the beginning. With persistence and professionalism, you can turn those first bookings into long-term success in the trucking industry.