Quick answer
A truck dispatcher finds and books freight for a carrier, negotiates rates with brokers, plans loads around the driver’s hours and home time, and handles the communication and paperwork that keep each load moving. An independent dispatcher works for the carrier, not the shipper or broker.
The short answer
A dispatcher is the carrier’s business partner on the freight side. While the driver focuses on safe driving, the dispatcher looks for the next load, negotiates the rate, coordinates with the broker, and keeps documents organized.
Day-to-day responsibilities
- Searching load boards and broker networks for suitable freight
- Negotiating rates and accessorials such as detention and layover
- Completing carrier setup packets with brokers
- Planning loads around hours of service, deadhead, and home time
- Sending pickup and delivery details to the driver
- Handling check calls, appointment changes, and issues
- Collecting rate confirmations, bills of lading, and proof of delivery
What a dispatcher does not do
An independent dispatcher is not a freight broker and does not take legal responsibility for the shipment. The carrier signs rate confirmations, is paid by the broker or factoring company, and remains responsible for safety and regulatory compliance.
Source: FMCSA: Registration and operating authority (opens in a new tab)
Dispatcher vs. broker: what is the difference?
| Item | Independent dispatcher | Freight broker |
|---|---|---|
| Works on behalf of | The carrier | The shipper, matching freight with carriers |
| Typical payment | Fee agreed with the carrier | Margin between shipper rate and carrier rate |
| Signs the rate confirmation | No, the carrier signs | Yes, as the counterparty |
| FMCSA broker authority | Not required for dispatch-only services | Required |
Questions to ask any dispatcher
- How do you decide which loads to present to me?
- Do I approve every load before it is booked?
- How is your fee calculated, and when is it due?
- What documents do you need from me, and how are they stored?
- How and when will you contact me while I am driving?
This guide is general information, not legal, tax, or insurance advice. Check current requirements with FMCSA and your own advisers.