What a DAT load board is and how truckers use it

A DAT load board is an online marketplace where shippers and freight brokers post available loads, and owner-operators and small trucking companies search for freight to haul. DAT Solutions, the company behind it, operates the largest load board in North America. Truckers log in, search by location and freight type, and contact brokers or shippers directly to negotiate rates and book loads.

The board works because both sides need each other: shippers have freight that needs to move, and truckers have empty trucks or upcoming capacity. Instead of calling brokers one by one, a trucker can see hundreds of loads in their area at once. Instead of calling trucking companies individually, a shipper posts once and waits for offers.

DAT is not the only load board — competitors include Coyote, Uber Freight, and Convoy — but DAT has the largest network of posted loads and the longest history in the industry. Most owner-operators and small fleets use it as their primary search tool, though many subscribe to multiple boards at the same time.

Key Takeaways

  • DAT load boards show real loads posted by shippers and brokers, with pickup and delivery locations, weight, freight type, and the rate offered.
  • You search by origin and destination, filter by load type and equipment needed, and contact the broker or shipper directly to confirm the load.
  • DAT charges a monthly subscription fee to truckers; the exact cost depends on which service tier you choose and whether you bundle it with other DAT products.
  • Loads on DAT are not reserved for you — multiple truckers see the same load, so you must contact the broker quickly and confirm your truck details to book it.
  • Most brokers and shippers on DAT expect you to have authority (your own MC number) or to be leased to a carrier; owner-operators without authority may see fewer loads.

How to search for loads on DAT

When you log into DAT, the main search screen asks for your origin (where you are or where you want to pick up) and your destination. You enter both as city and state or as a zip code. DAT then shows all posted loads matching that lane, sorted by posting date or by rate.

Each load listing shows the shipper or broker name, the pickup location and date, the delivery location and date, the weight and commodity type, the equipment required (53-foot dry van, flatbed, tanker, etc.), and the rate offered. Some listings also show the shipper's contact information; others require you to contact the broker first.

You can filter results by equipment type, by minimum rate, by load weight, and by how recently the load was posted. Many truckers filter to show only loads posted in the last few hours, because older loads are more likely to be already booked. You can also set up saved lanes — routes you run regularly — so DAT alerts you when new loads post on those routes.

Once you find a load you want, you click on it to see the full details, then contact the broker or shipper using the phone number or email shown. You confirm your truck type, your current location, your availability, and your willingness to haul at the posted rate. The broker then confirms whether the load is still available and books it to your truck.

What DAT subscription tiers cost and what they include

DAT offers several subscription levels for truckers. The entry-level plan includes access to the load board, the ability to post your truck as available, and basic search filters. Mid-tier plans add features like saved lanes, load alerts, and integration with your dispatch software. Premium plans include additional tools like rate analysis and fuel surcharge tracking.

Monthly subscription costs vary based on the plan you choose and whether you bundle DAT services together. A single load board subscription typically ranges from around $50 to $150 per month, though DAT periodically runs promotions for new subscribers. If you add other DAT products — such as their fuel card or their factoring service — the bundled price may be lower than paying for each separately.

DAT also offers a free trial period, usually 30 days, so you can test the platform before committing to a paid subscription. During the trial, you have full access to search loads but cannot contact brokers or book freight until you enter a payment method.

Why loads disappear quickly and how to book before someone else does

A single load posted on DAT is visible to thousands of truckers at the same time. The moment a broker posts a load, multiple owner-operators see it and may contact the broker simultaneously. The broker books it to whichever trucker confirms first with the correct equipment and availability.

This means that by the time you read a load listing, it may already be booked. You will not know until you contact the broker. If you see a load that fits your route and your truck, call or email the broker when ready rather than waiting to compare it to other options. Have your truck number, current location, and availability ready before you call, so you can confirm in seconds if the broker asks.

Some truckers set up load alerts for specific lanes so they are notified the moment a new load posts, giving them a head start over truckers who check the board manually. Others check the board multiple times per day during their preferred driving hours. The faster you respond, the better your chances of booking the load.

How rates are negotiated and what affects the price you see

The rate shown on a DAT load listing is the rate the broker or shipper is offering. This is not always the final rate you will receive. Some brokers post a base rate and negotiate upward if you have a strong record or if the load is difficult to cover. Others post their maximum rate and do not negotiate.

Rates on DAT vary widely based on fuel costs, seasonal demand, the distance of the haul, and how quickly the load needs to move. A 500-mile load in peak season may pay significantly more than the same load in a slow period. Loads posted as urgent or with tight pickup windows often pay more because brokers need them covered fast.

Your own authority status and safety record affect which loads you can book. Owner-operators with their own MC number (motor carrier authority) can book any load. Owner-operators leased to a carrier book through their carrier's authority. Truckers without authority or with poor safety ratings may see fewer loads offered to them, or brokers may decline to book them even if they call.

Common mistakes to avoid when using DAT

The most common mistake is treating DAT as a may provide source of loads. The board shows what is available right now, but loads post and disappear constantly. If you rely on DAT as your only load source and do not book quickly, you may end up with empty truck time. Most successful owner-operators use DAT alongside other load boards and direct shipper relationships.

Another mistake is not confirming your truck details before calling a broker. If you tell a broker you have a 53-foot dry van but you actually have a 48-foot van, or if your truck is not available until tomorrow but the load needs to pick up today, the broker will not book you. Wasting a broker's time this way damages your reputation and they may decline future loads from you.

A third mistake is ignoring the shipper or broker's requirements. Some loads require a certain safety rating, a certain number of years of experience, or proof of insurance. If you do not meet the requirement, the broker will not book you no matter how quickly you call. Read the full load details before contacting the broker so you do not waste their time or yours.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need my own MC number to use DAT?

You can search and view loads on DAT without authority, but most brokers will not book you unless you have your own MC number or are leased to a carrier. If you are leased, your carrier's authority covers the load. If you are an independent owner-operator, you need your own authority to legally haul freight for hire.

Can I post my truck on DAT so brokers can find me?

Yes. DAT allows you to post your truck as available, including your current location, your destination, your equipment type, and your rate expectations. Brokers can search for available trucks and contact you directly. This is less common than truckers searching for loads, but it works if you are in a high-demand area or if you have a strong reputation.

What if a broker books a load to me and then cancels?

Cancellations happen, usually because the shipper cancelled or the load was already booked to another truck. Most brokers will not charge you a fee for a cancellation on their end. If you cancel after confirming, some brokers may charge a small fee or note it on your record. Always confirm the load details and the pickup time before you commit to driving to the shipper.

How do I know if a load posted on DAT is a scam?

Legitimate loads on DAT come from established brokers and shippers with verifiable business information. Be cautious of loads that offer unusually high rates for short distances, loads that ask you to pay upfront, or brokers who cannot provide a shipper name or contact information. Check the broker's authority with the FMCSA before booking if you are unsure.

Can I use DAT on my phone while driving?

DAT has a mobile app for iOS and Android, so you can search loads and receive alerts on your phone. However, you should not search or book loads while driving. Pull over safely, review the load details, and contact the broker when you are parked. Many truckers check the DAT app during breaks or at truck stops.