Many cargo van owners start out by taking on jobs through friends or via websites like Craigslist, but neither of those options represents a good, long-term plan if you want to build a real business. Load boards are online platforms where people post shipping jobs and van owners find work. They’re like job boards but solely for tasks that involve moving things from place to place.
Given its busy port and industries, a city like Houston has many shipping opportunities. If you’re looking for work, consider the following some of the best places to start:
DAT Freight & Analytics
DAT is one of the oldest load boards, and its biggest advantage is the number of available jobs. It posts millions of loads, so you’re likely to find something that fits your van.
However, the downside is that using DAT costs more than other options, which means it isn’t very suitable for newcomers. Still, many cargo van drivers choose DAT because of its premium features, like credit checks on shippers and detailed payment histories that can protect them from bad deals.
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Truckstop
Truckstop is one of the most popular load boards for cargo vans. It offers real-time load listings that update constantly and includes payment protection features so you don’t get cheated by shippers. It also provides business management tools like a Transportation Management System and carrier onboarding, and its “Compare Rates” feature provides rate insights and spot market analysis to help you know fair prices.
Direct Freight
Direct Freight is an easier-to-use load board than some others. It regularly posts new jobs and shows helpful information, like how trustworthy the shipper is and how old the job posting is. The board is also known for its simple design and quick notifications about new loads. Combined with its offering of a free version with basic features, Direct Freight is a solid starting point for new cargo van owners who want to test the waters.
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CBT Logistics Group
CBT Logistics Group offers a load board focused on reliability for cargo van owners. Its system maintains a 98% on-time delivery rate through active scheduling management, and its outbound load management system helps with organizing and distributing warehouse shipments.
Each carrier gets a dedicated account representative who provides personalized service and daily load updates. That personal touch makes CBT especially useful for newer cargo van operators who might need more guidance when getting started.
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Amazon Relay
Amazon’s platform connects van drivers with delivery jobs specific to the e-commerce site. Once approved, you can get steady work delivering Amazon packages; however, the downside is that Amazon sets the rates, not you.
Nevertheless, it’s an option that works well in Houston, given its large population of over 7.5 million people. Amazon Relay also offers predictable schedules and regular payment cycles, which can help with managing your business finances and growth.
uShip
uShip works differently from other load boards because instead of just listing jobs, it lets you bid on them, giving you more control over your rates. The site is good for unusual items that don’t fit standard shipping options, and many Houston cargo van owners use it to find higher-paying specialty loads like antiques, artwork, or custom furniture.
GoShare
GoShare works similarly to Uber: it connects people needing items moved with nearby drivers and cargo vans. This is perfect in Houston’s busy urban areas, where many people need help moving furniture, appliances, or store purchases. You won’t even have to search for jobs; the app will send nearby opportunities right to your phone.
Finding Your Perfect Load Board Match
Think about what you want from your cargo van business, then choose the load board that helps you get there. Pick one that pays fairly, matches your van’s capabilities, and enables you to build toward a stable business. From there, all you need to do is drive safely and avoid getting into a car accident.
Contact a Houston Personal Injury Lawyer to Help You With Your Claim
For more information, contact the Houston personal injury law firm of Attorney Brian White Personal Injury Lawyers by calling (713) 500-5000.
Attorney Brian White Personal Injury Lawyers – Houston
3120 Southwest Freeway, Suite 350
Houston, TX 77098
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11811 East Fwy, Suite 630-06
Houston, TX 77029
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2600 S Loop W, Suite 293
Houston, TX 77054
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11511 Katy Fwy Suite 515
Houston, TX 77079
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205 S Pierce St.
Burnet, TX 78611
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Houston, TX 77058
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1776 Woodstead Ct ste 203,
The Woodlands, TX 77380
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