The Real Reason You’re Not Getting Loads in Your Trucking Business
Introduction: Why You're Struggling to Book Loads (and What to Do About It)
The trucking business isn’t just about keeping wheels turning—it’s about keeping money flowing. Yet, too many trucking companies and owner-operators are facing the same frustrating problem: loads are drying up. Whether you're scrolling load boards endlessly or working with a dispatcher who “used to” get you steady work, the result is the same—empty miles, low profits, and rising stress.
But here's the hard truth: it’s not just the market. The real reason you're not getting loads has more to do with how your business is structured, how you source freight, and how well you adapt to today's shifting logistics landscape.
In this article, we’ll break down exactly why trucking businesses struggle to secure consistent loads, how oversupply and rate wars are choking the industry, and most importantly—what you can do to fix it. Whether you’re a solo owner-operator or scaling a small fleet, these insights will help you run a more profitable, reliable, and future-ready operation.
Understanding the Load Shortage Crisis
Before you can fix the problem, you need to see it clearly. What’s really happening in today’s freight market?
Market Oversupply & Capacity Imbalance
There are simply too many trucks chasing too little freight. According to recent data from FreightWaves, the post-pandemic boom led to a flood of new carriers entering the market. Now, with demand returning to normal levels, there’s more capacity than freight—especially in the spot market.
The result? Lower rates, fierce competition, and a lot of empty miles. Even experienced carriers are struggling to cover fuel and fixed costs. When everyone’s competing for the same few loads, brokers start offering bottom-dollar pricing.
Long-tail keywords used: “freight capacity oversupply trucking”, “too many trucks not enough freight”
Unique insight: The problem isn’t just competition—it’s that many new entrants don’t understand their cost-per-mile, which means they’re willing to accept underpriced freight. This drags down the market for everyone.
Freight Recession Explained
What we’re experiencing now is often referred to as a freight recession—a period when rates drop, tender rejections fall, and trucking revenue contracts. While some carriers are blaming brokers or platforms, the truth is the entire supply chain is correcting after COVID-19 shocks.
Tender rejections (an indicator of freight availability and rate strength) dropped from over 20% in 2021 to under 4% in late 2024, according to market analytics. This means shippers have more options and carriers have less leverage.
LSI terms used: “trucking market downturn tips”, “freight recession explained”
Unique insight: If you built your trucking business during the boom and didn’t prepare for the bust, you’re now paying the price. The best-run companies are already adjusting by shifting from spot market dependence to longer-term contracts.
Impact of Tariffs & Trade Policy
International freight policy also plays a role. Ongoing tariff changes and global shipping slowdowns affect port-related trucking lanes, especially in California and along the East Coast. If you were heavily dependent on import-export lanes, you’ve likely seen a drop-off.
Pair that with inflation and fluctuating diesel prices, and it becomes clear: freight availability is not just local—it’s geopolitical.
Long-tail keyword: “trucking business slow load times”
Unique insight: If you're still targeting port lanes without diversifying to domestic or regional loads, you're gambling on unpredictable trade policies.
The Real Root Causes: Why You’re Not Booking Loads
Now that you understand the broader market forces at play, it’s time to look inward. If you're not getting loads consistently, chances are it’s not just the market—it’s your business model, pricing strategy, and lack of load diversification that’s holding you back.
Let’s break it down.
Spot Market Dependency: The Rollercoaster You Didn’t Sign Up For
The spot market might feel convenient—you jump on a load board, find something that fits, and you're off. But if 90% or more of your loads come from spot market boards, you're exposing yourself to an unpredictable, low-paying segment of the industry.
Spot rates rise and fall weekly based on demand. Right now, they’re down. That means brokers are pushing lowball offers, and you're often competing with carriers willing to haul for less than their actual operating costs.
Long-tail keywords used:
“how to get more loads as owner-operator”
“spot market vs contract freight trucking”
Unique insight:
The best trucking businesses only use the spot market to fill gaps. The majority of their freight comes from dedicated lanes, direct shipper contracts, or dispatchers with exclusive relationships. This provides consistency and protects them from market volatility.
Inefficient Cost-per-Mile Management
Ask any owner-operator: “What’s your break-even cost-per-mile?” If they don’t know, that’s a red flag—and probably the reason their load board bids are too low to be profitable.
When you don’t know how much it costs to run your truck per mile, you risk accepting freight that loses you money. This includes:
Fuel inefficiency
High maintenance overhead
Costly financing or leasing terms
Underpriced insurance
Idle time and deadhead miles
LSI terms used:
“trucking cost-per-mile calculator”
“trucking business profit margins”
Example Insight:
A carrier in Texas recently audited their fleet and found their true CPM was $1.97. Yet they had been taking loads at $1.70/mile. Over time, this added up to over $15,000 in losses in a quarter.
Solution:
Track EVERY expense and use CPM calculators (available for free from TMS platforms or Excel templates). Adjust your load pricing floor accordingly.
Poor Route and Backhaul Planning
Another silent profit killer? Empty miles. Many carriers focus only on outbound loads and don’t plan for what they’ll haul on the way back. This turns every second trip into a money-loser.
If you’re hauling long distances without a solid backhaul strategy, you’re effectively paying out of pocket for your return trip. And in a freight recession, deadhead costs stack up fast.
Long-tail keyword:
“reduce deadhead miles strategies”
“trucking route optimization”
Unique insight:
Smart fleets use tech-driven routing platforms like Trucker Tools or Samsara to not only find backhauls but to bundle regional hauls that reduce long-distance runs altogether. Others invest in local or last-mile freight to reduce dependency on variable national lanes.
Fixing the Fundamental Problems: Get Off the Load Board Hamster Wheel
Once you’ve diagnosed the real reasons behind your lack of freight, it’s time to fix the root issues. This section will walk you through actionable strategies to restructure your trucking business for consistent, profitable load flow.
Shift from Spot Market to Contract Freight
If you want predictability, you need to think beyond load boards. Contract freight means getting paid a set rate per mile on dedicated lanes—no bidding, no guesswork.
Why it works:
You build a relationship with one shipper or broker.
Rates are usually higher and more consistent than spot.
You reduce stress and save hours not chasing daily loads.
How to get started:
Reach out directly to shippers (especially manufacturers, wholesalers, and regional distributors).
Look into freight brokers that offer dedicated lanes.
Use platforms like DAT’s Contract Freight section or reach out to government RFPs for consistent routes.
Long-tail keyword used:
“contract freight trucking opportunities”
Unique insight:
Brokers don’t advertise their best loads. They give them to reliable carriers they trust. Become that carrier by showing up on time, staying in communication, and demonstrating flexibility.
Master Your Cost-Per-Mile (CPM)
Cost-per-mile isn't just a number—it’s your foundation. Without knowing your true CPM, you're flying blind. Fixing this means running a leaner, smarter trucking business.
Steps to mastering CPM:
Tally all fixed expenses (insurance, truck payment, permits).
Add all variable costs (fuel, maintenance, driver pay).
Divide by your monthly miles to get your break-even CPM.
Add a margin to calculate your target rate per mile.
Example:
If your CPM is $1.70 and you're running 12,000 miles/month, your operating cost is $20,400. To profit, your loads must pay above this threshold—or you're just staying busy, not profitable.
LSI terms used:
“trucking profit calculator”
“trucking business financials”
Unique insight:
The most profitable owner-operators don’t necessarily run more miles—they run smarter miles. They know when to say no to unprofitable loads because they understand their numbers.
Use Route Optimization & Backhaul Tools
Smart routing doesn’t just save time—it saves dollars per mile. If you’re not using tech to plan your loads and reduce empty miles, you’re leaving money on the table.
Top tools:
Samsara, TruckSmarter, Trucker Path, or CloudTrucks
Integrate with ELDs and dispatch software for live updates
Plan bundled lanes (e.g. Dallas > Atlanta > Charlotte > Dallas) to ensure full-circle profitability
Long-tail keywords used:
“optimize trucking route analytics”
“reduce deadhead miles strategies”
Unique insight:
Some TMS platforms now use AI predictions to recommend next loads before you deliver the current one—automating backhauls and maximizing income.
Diversify Services to Expand Load Access
If you’re only running dry van freight in a market downturn, you’re bottlenecking yourself. Expand your capabilities to access higher-paying loads.
Consider:
Reefer units for perishables
Hazmat certifications
Flatbed or heavy haul equipment
Hot shot or expedited services
Drayage or port-based lanes
Team driver lanes for time-sensitive freight
LSI terms used:
“trucking niche markets refrigerated hauls”
“specialized freight services owner-operators”
Unique insight:
One carrier in Illinois added a reefer unit and doubled revenue in 90 days by tapping into grocery supply chains—while dry van rates were tanking.
Load-Sourcing Tactics That Actually Work
Now that you’ve optimized your costs and strategy, the big question remains: Where do I actually find consistent, paying loads?
Here’s how to ditch the dead ends and start securing freight that keeps your wheels turning—and your trucking business profitable.
Optimize Load Boards the Right Way
Yes, load boards can still work—if you use them strategically.
The biggest mistake owner-operators make? Refreshing the same 2–3 boards and settling for the lowest-paying load. Instead, focus on:
Premium load boards with high-quality freight:
DAT Power, Truckstop Pro, 123Loadboard Premium
Use advanced filters: set minimum RPM (rate per mile), equipment type, lane preference, and broker credit scores.
Set up alerts for contract and repeat lanes instead of one-offs.
Long-tail keywords used:
“best load boards for owner-operators”
“how to get more loads as a small fleet”
Unique insight:
Winning carriers don’t chase every load—they wait for the right match. Smart load board use is about patience and alerts, not desperation.
Partner With Quality Dispatchers and Factoring Services
You don’t have to find every load yourself. A professional dispatcher can connect you with freight you’d otherwise never access—especially if they specialize in high-paying niches.
What to look for in a dispatcher:
Verifiable references from carriers
Weekly gross revenue expectations
Specialization by lane, region, or load type
No double-brokering or percentage padding
Factoring companies can also help you:
Improve cash flow with same-day payments
Bundle dispatch + factoring for added convenience
Access premium loads exclusive to their networks
Top services:
RTS Financial, eCapital, OTR Solutions, FleetOne
LSI keywords:
“trucking dispatch services for owner ops”
“trucking business cash flow factoring”
Unique insight:
Some factoring companies offer brokerage partnerships, giving you access to dedicated freight from shippers using their network exclusively.
Register for Government & Municipal Freight
One of the least-used but most consistent load sources? Government freight contracts.
Examples:
USPS and USPS subcontractors
FEMA, DOT, state and local agencies
Department of Agriculture (especially for reefer freight)
Where to find them:
SAM.gov (System for Award Management)
FedBizOpps.gov or local county procurement pages
GSA Advantage (for product delivery and LTL options)
Long-tail keyword used:
“government freight contracts trucking”
Unique insight:
Once you're SAM-registered and have the right insurance and equipment, you can secure multi-year contracts that pay above-market rates—with minimal competition.
Load-Sourcing Tactics That Actually Work
Now that you’ve optimized your costs and strategy, the big question remains: Where do I actually find consistent, paying loads?
Here’s how to ditch the dead ends and start securing freight that keeps your wheels turning—and your trucking business profitable.
Optimize Load Boards the Right Way
Yes, load boards can still work—if you use them strategically.
The biggest mistake owner-operators make? Refreshing the same 2–3 boards and settling for the lowest-paying load. Instead, focus on:
Premium load boards with high-quality freight:
DAT Power, Truckstop Pro, 123Loadboard Premium
Use advanced filters: set minimum RPM (rate per mile), equipment type, lane preference, and broker credit scores.
Set up alerts for contract and repeat lanes instead of one-offs.
Long-tail keywords used:
“best load boards for owner-operators”
“how to get more loads as a small fleet”
Unique insight:
Winning carriers don’t chase every load—they wait for the right match. Smart load board use is about patience and alerts, not desperation.
Partner With Quality Dispatchers and Factoring Services
You don’t have to find every load yourself. A professional dispatcher can connect you with freight you’d otherwise never access—especially if they specialize in high-paying niches.
What to look for in a dispatcher:
Verifiable references from carriers
Weekly gross revenue expectations
Specialization by lane, region, or load type
No double-brokering or percentage padding
Factoring companies can also help you:
Improve cash flow with same-day payments
Bundle dispatch + factoring for added convenience
Access premium loads exclusive to their networks
Top services:
RTS Financial, eCapital, OTR Solutions, FleetOne
LSI keywords:
“trucking dispatch services for owner ops”
“trucking business cash flow factoring”
Unique insight:
Some factoring companies offer brokerage partnerships, giving you access to dedicated freight from shippers using their network exclusively.
Register for Government & Municipal Freight
One of the least-used but most consistent load sources? Government freight contracts.
Examples:
USPS and USPS subcontractors
FEMA, DOT, state and local agencies
Department of Agriculture (especially for reefer freight)
Where to find them:
SAM.gov (System for Award Management)
FedBizOpps.gov or local county procurement pages
GSA Advantage (for product delivery and LTL options)
Long-tail keyword used:
“government freight contracts trucking”
Unique insight:
Once you're SAM-registered and have the right insurance and equipment, you can secure multi-year contracts that pay above-market rates—with minimal competition.
Financial & Tech Levers for Load Growth
Trucking isn’t just about driving—it’s about managing a business. The smartest carriers are turning to technology and financial strategy to stabilize cash flow, improve decision-making, and grow faster than competitors.
Use TMS, Telematics & Analytics to Optimize Operations
A Transportation Management System (TMS) isn’t just for fleets with 50 trucks—it’s for anyone who wants to stop bleeding money and time. Paired with telematics and load-tracking tools, TMS platforms can transform how you run your business.
Top benefits:
Live load tracking and route adjustments
Integration with fuel cards and dispatchers
Digital logs of revenue, expenses, CPM, deadhead, and driver hours
Automated backhaul suggestions
Invoicing and BOL management
Popular tools for owner-ops and small fleets:
Truckbase, Axele, Motive, Samsara, TruckerPath Premium
Long-tail keywords used:
“best tms for small trucking company”
“trucking route optimization software”
Unique insight:
Carriers using TMS with automated dispatch and invoicing see up to 22% higher profit margins, due to reduced delays and fewer missed opportunities.
Factoring for Faster Cash Flow
If you're waiting 30–60 days to get paid on every load, you're choking your business. Factoring solves that problem.
How it works:
A factoring company pays you same day or next day
They collect from the broker/shipper
You pay a small fee (typically 1.5–3%)
Best for:
Covering fuel, tolls, repairs without using credit
Scaling up operations
Managing payroll for small fleets
Top-rated factoring companies (2025):
RTS Financial, OTR Capital, Triumph Business Capital, eCapital
LSI keywords used:
“trucking cash flow help factoring”
“freight factoring services owner-operators”
Unique insight:
Many factoring companies now offer dispatching, fuel advances, load boards, and maintenance loans bundled into a single package—streamlining operations dramatically.
Keep Clean Books & Track Performance KPIs
One of the top reasons trucking businesses fail? Poor bookkeeping.
You can’t grow what you don’t measure. To fix this:
Use software like QuickBooks, Rigbooks, or Truck’n Pro
Track key metrics weekly:
Cost per mile (CPM)
Gross vs net revenue
Deadhead %
Average rate per mile (RPM)
Fuel efficiency (MPG)
Work with a CPA who understands trucking
Long-tail keyword:
“bookkeeping tips for trucking businesses”
“trucking kpis to track performance”
Unique insight:
Trucking-specific bookkeepers can often find $5K–$10K in tax savings per year that generic CPAs miss. They also help set up smart LLC/S Corp structures to protect personal assets.
Scaling Smart: From Owner-Operator to Fleet
If you're consistently profitable as an owner-operator and looking to grow, don’t make the mistake of expanding too fast or hiring without a plan. Scaling smart means building a business that’s sustainable—not just bigger.
Lease-On to an Established Carrier First
Instead of jumping straight into your own authority with multiple trucks, consider leasing onto a reputable carrier first.
Benefits:
Access to their freight network
Reduced insurance and compliance burden
Easier transition to managing additional trucks
No need to chase load boards during early growth
Long-tail keywords used:
“best carriers to lease onto in 2025”
“lease on vs own authority trucking”
Unique insight:
Many successful fleet owners started by leasing one or two trucks to larger carriers—using their platform and cash flow to grow without excessive risk.
Earn Passive Income with Trailers & Advertising
Your truck isn’t just a tool—it’s an asset that can earn passive income.
Options include:
Trailer rentals to other carriers or hotshot drivers
Trailer advertising with vinyl wraps from services like Wrapify or direct brand partnerships
Subleasing idle trucks or equipment during market slowdowns
LSI keywords used:
“truck trailer rental passive income”
“make money with trucking equipment”
Unique insight:
One Florida-based owner made over $1,000/month by wrapping his reefer trailer with a beverage brand while still hauling freight—effectively reducing his fuel cost to $0.
Use Tech to Reduce Deadhead & Manage Fleets
As you scale, manual dispatching and tracking becomes a nightmare. Use fleet management software and smart ELD integrations to stay ahead.
Must-have features:
Live GPS & route optimization
Driver scorecards (safety + efficiency)
Maintenance tracking
Fleet-wide CPM and revenue dashboards
Fuel card integration (Fleet One, EFS)
Recommended tools:
KeepTruckin/Motive, Geotab, Samsara, Fleetio, TruckSpy
Long-tail keywords used:
“fleet management tools for trucking”
“deadhead reduction technology trucking”
Unique insight:
Modern fleet tech can reduce fuel costs up to 12% and improve compliance by automating logs, IFTA, and DVIR reports.
Future-Proofing Your Trucking Business
The trucking industry is evolving fast—those who adapt survive. Those who don’t? They get left behind. If you want your business to thrive for the next 5, 10, or even 20 years, you need to future-proof it now.
Embrace Automation & Stay Ahead of Tech Disruption
Autonomous trucks aren’t science fiction anymore—they’re being tested on U.S. highways right now. While it’ll be years before widespread adoption, tech is already changing how freight is moved.
What you should do:
Use AI-powered platforms like CloudTrucks to automate dispatch and rate negotiation.
Stay updated on autonomous freight zones—early adopters will need pilot programs and test drivers.
Upskill into tech-savvy roles (e.g., fleet tech supervisor, dispatch analyst, compliance ops).
Long-tail keywords used:
“autonomous trucking impact future”
“ai in trucking logistics 2025”
Unique insight:
The smartest owner-ops are already training in digital logistics tools to stay employable and scalable—regardless of who’s driving.
Prepare for Demand Cycles & Freight Recessions
Booms don’t last—and neither do busts. If you scale without planning for downturns, your business could fold when rates fall.
Future-proofing actions:
Build reserves to cover 3–6 months of fixed costs
Secure multiple revenue streams (freight + passive income)
Diversify lanes across sectors (construction, medical, consumer goods)
Maintain strong broker/shipper relationships
LSI keywords used:
“freight recession trucking tips”
“trucking downturn business plan”
Unique insight:
One small fleet in Missouri made it through the 2023–2024 freight dip by cutting unprofitable lanes, dropping two trucks, and focusing only on high-RPM regional runs.
When the market returned, they were leaner—and more profitable.
Invest in Driver Retention & Upskilling
Drivers are your most valuable asset. Even as tech advances, a skilled and loyal driver base will be a major competitive advantage.
To stay ahead:
Offer training for new equipment and tech
Invest in safety bonuses and fuel-efficiency incentives
Create paths to promotion (lead driver, dispatcher-in-training)
Use apps like Tenstreet or WorkHound to boost engagement
Long-tail keywords used:
“retain truck drivers small fleet”
“driver training and development trucking”
Unique insight:
Companies with engaged drivers see lower turnover (by 37%), reduced maintenance costs, and higher shipper satisfaction—leading to more direct freight contracts.
Quick Takeaways: Why You’re Not Getting Loads (and How to Fix It)
Too many trucks, not enough freight: The spot market is saturated—pivot to dedicated contracts for consistency.
Lack of cost control: If you don’t know your true cost-per-mile, you’re probably hauling at a loss.
No niche strategy: General freight carriers are stuck in price wars. Specialize (reefer, flatbed, hazmat) to boost RPM.
Poor load-sourcing strategy: Load boards are tools, not solutions. Use dispatchers, factoring partners, and government contracts.
Failure to scale smart: Don’t expand blindly—use tech, optimize operations, and lease-on strategically to grow without chaos.
Top 5 FAQs on Why Truckers Aren’t Getting Loads
1. Why am I seeing fewer loads on load boards lately?
Oversupply, market correction, and broker consolidation have made the spot market extremely competitive. Focus on contract freight and specialized lanes instead.
2. What’s the most profitable trucking niche right now?
Reefer, flatbed, and hazmat-certified freight are outperforming dry van. Hotshot freight and power-only lanes are also growing.
3. How can I reduce deadhead miles?
Use route optimization tools, bundle regional lanes, and plan backhauls before you accept a load. Tools like Samsara or Trucker Path Pro help.
4. Is factoring worth it for small carriers?
Yes. It boosts cash flow, lets you cover fuel and repairs faster, and often gives access to premium freight networks.
5. What’s a good cost-per-mile (CPM) target in 2025?
Most owner-ops should aim for a CPM of $1.70–$1.90 including all expenses—and only accept loads that pay above this.
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