What Dat Load is and who uses it
Dat Load is a freight matching platform where owner-operators, carriers, and brokers post and find loads. The service connects shippers with available trucks and lets drivers search for freight that matches their route, equipment type, and capacity. It operates as a load board — a marketplace where you can see what's available, negotiate rates, and manage the logistics of moving freight from point A to point B.
The platform is used by independent owner-operators looking for loads to fill empty truck space, small carriers managing their own dispatch, and freight brokers trying to move shipments. Unlike some load boards that charge per search or per posting, Dat Load uses a subscription model where you pay a monthly or annual fee for access to the board and its tools.
Dat Load is owned by Landstar System, one of the largest transportation networks in North America. That ownership means the load board has access to a large network of freight, but it also means the rates and terms reflect Landstar's standards and practices.
Key Takeaways
- Dat Load is a subscription-based load board where owner-operators and carriers find freight and brokers post shipments they need to move.
- You pay a monthly or annual subscription fee to access loads, post your truck, and use the platform's dispatch and communication tools.
- The platform is part of Landstar System, so loads and rates tend to reflect Landstar's carrier network and pricing standards.
- You can filter loads by location, equipment type, weight, and distance to find freight that matches your truck and route.
- Payment terms, insurance requirements, and load details are negotiated between the carrier and broker or shipper on each load.
How to set up an account and post your truck
To use Dat Load, you first create an account with your business information, truck details, and contact information. You will need to provide your DOT number, MC number (if you have one), insurance information, and the type of equipment you operate — flatbed, dry van, reefer, tanker, or other specialty trailers.
Once your account is active, you can create a profile for your truck or fleet that shows your equipment type, capacity, current location, and the lanes or regions where you typically operate. Other users on the platform can see this profile when they search for available trucks. You can also set your rates and terms — though many carriers prefer to negotiate per load rather than post fixed rates.
If you are a broker or shipper, you post the load details instead: origin and destination, weight, commodity type, equipment needed, and the rate you are offering. Carriers then bid on the load or contact you directly to negotiate.
Finding loads and understanding the posting details
When you search for loads on Dat Load, you can filter by pickup location, delivery location, equipment type, weight range, and distance. The board shows you the shipper or broker name, the rate offered, pickup and delivery dates, and any special requirements like hazmat certification or specific equipment.
Load postings typically include the commodity being shipped, any handling restrictions, whether the load requires a tarp or special securing, and whether it is a full truckload or partial. Some loads are posted with a fixed rate; others are open to negotiation. The posting will also show whether the shipper or broker requires you to have specific insurance coverage, such as general liability or cargo insurance.
Unlike some load boards that charge per search or per load view, Dat Load subscribers have unlimited access to search and view all posted loads during their subscription period. You can save loads to a list, contact the poster directly, or use the platform's messaging system to negotiate terms.
Subscription costs and what is included
Dat Load charges a monthly or annual subscription fee to access the platform. The exact cost varies depending on the subscription tier and whether you are an owner-operator, a small carrier, or a broker. Landstar publishes pricing on their website, but you should contact them directly for current rates, as they change and may offer promotional pricing.
Your subscription typically includes unlimited load searches, the ability to post your truck or loads, access to the messaging system, and basic dispatch tools. Some tiers may include additional features like load tracking, automated notifications when loads matching your criteria are posted, or integration with accounting software.
The subscription fee is separate from any load-specific costs. When you accept a load, you negotiate the rate directly with the broker or shipper. Dat Load does not take a commission on individual loads — you pay only the subscription fee to access the board.
Insurance and compliance requirements
Before you can post your truck or bid on loads through Dat Load, you must have a valid DOT number and appropriate commercial auto insurance. Most shippers and brokers require carriers to carry general liability insurance and cargo insurance, depending on what they are hauling.
Hazmat loads require additional certification and insurance. If you want to haul hazmat freight, you will need a hazmat endorsement on your CDL and hazmat liability insurance. Dat Load allows you to filter for hazmat loads, but you must have the proper credentials before you can bid on them.
The platform does not verify your insurance or credentials for you — that is your responsibility. Before accepting a load, confirm that the shipper or broker has received proof of your current insurance and that your coverage meets their requirements. Many brokers will not release a load until they have a certificate of insurance on file.
Payment terms and how rates are set
Rates on Dat Load are negotiated between you and the broker or shipper for each load. Some loads are posted with a fixed rate; others show a rate range or are marked as open to negotiation. You can accept the posted rate, make a counteroffer, or pass on the load.
Payment terms vary widely. Some brokers pay when ready upon delivery; others pay within 7, 14, or 30 days. These terms are usually stated in the load posting or discussed when you negotiate. If payment terms are not clear, ask before you accept the load. Late payment is common in freight, so confirm the broker's payment history if you can.
Dat Load does not hold or process payments — it is a matching platform only. You invoice the broker or shipper directly, and they pay you according to the terms you agreed to. If there is a payment dispute, you will need to resolve it directly with the other party or through your own legal channels.
Comparing Dat Load to other load boards
Dat Load is one of several load boards available to owner-operators and carriers. Other popular options include Freight Match, DAT One (the original DAT load board, now separate from Dat Load), Convoy, Uber Freight, and Factoring companies that offer load boards as part of their services.
Dat Load's main advantage is its connection to Landstar System, which means a steady supply of freight from a large, established carrier network. The disadvantage is that rates on Landstar-affiliated loads may be lower than on independent load boards, and the platform is designed to work well with Landstar's business model.
If you are comparing load boards, consider the subscription cost, the volume and types of loads posted, the geographic regions covered, and whether the board offers tools you need like load tracking or accounting integration. Many owner-operators use multiple load boards to maximize their options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to be a Landstar agent to use Dat Load?
No. Dat Load is open to any owner-operator, carrier, or broker with a valid DOT number and appropriate insurance. You do not have to be affiliated with Landstar to use the platform, though Landstar's own agents and carriers have access to loads within the Landstar network.
Can I post my own loads on Dat Load if I am a broker?
Yes. Brokers can post loads and search for available carriers on the same platform. You will need a broker account and appropriate licensing (MC number and broker authority). The subscription fee and features may differ from carrier accounts.
What happens if a broker cancels a load after I have accepted it?
Load cancellations happen, and the terms are negotiated between you and the broker. Some brokers offer a small cancellation fee; others do not. This should be discussed when you accept the load. Dat Load does not enforce cancellation policies — that is between you and the broker.
Can I use Dat Load on my phone?
Dat Load has a mobile app for iOS and Android that lets you search loads, post your truck, and communicate with brokers and shippers. The app includes push notifications so you can be alerted when new loads matching your criteria are posted.
How do I know if a load posting is legitimate?
Check the broker or shipper's name against the FMCSA database and the Better Business Bureau. Ask for references from other carriers who have hauled for them. If a rate seems too high or the terms seem unusual, contact the poster directly to confirm details before committing to the load.