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Understanding the Roles: Freight Brokers vs. Dispatchers

Updated: Jun 3

When you’re an owner-operator or small carrier, knowing who’s on your side—and what they actually do—can be confusing.


Two of the most commonly misunderstood roles in the trucking industry are freight brokers and dispatchers. Both play an essential part in the movement of freight, but they serve very different functions in your business. Understanding these differences can help you avoid frustration, improve your workflow, and ultimately boost your bottom line.



What Is a Freight Broker?


A freight broker acts as a middleman between shippers (who need freight moved) and carriers (like you, the driver). They are licensed by the FMCSA and are legally authorized to broker freight contracts. Understanding this role is crucial for anyone in the trucking business.


Key Responsibilities of a Freight Broker:

  • Finds loads from shippers.

  • Matches those loads with available carriers.

  • Negotiates rates between shipper and carrier.

  • Handles contracts and compliance between both parties.


Who Do They Work For?

Freight brokers work for themselves or a brokerage. Their goal is to profit by charging the shipper more than they pay the carrier. This results in them taking a margin on each load.


Pros and Cons

Pros:

  • Can provide access to large, consistent shippers.

  • May offer high-volume lanes, which can be beneficial.


Cons:

  • May prioritize their profit over your rate.

  • Less personal connection or support for drivers.

  • Can result in lower pay per mile for the driver.


Understanding these pros and cons will help you navigate your options better. This knowledge can lead to smarter decisions in choosing your freight partnerships.



What Is a Dispatcher?


A dispatcher, by contrast, works directly for the carrier or owner-operator—you. They are not brokers. Their job is to help you find loads, negotiate rates, manage paperwork, and keep your truck moving efficiently. This role is often misunderstood, yet exceptionally vital for your operations.


Key Responsibilities of a Dispatcher:

  • Books loads for you from brokers or load boards.

  • Negotiates the best rates for you, maximizing your profits.

  • Handles paperwork like rate confirmations and carrier packets.

  • Plans your routes to minimize deadhead miles.

  • Communicates with brokers on your behalf.

  • Provides real-time support on the road.


Who Do They Work For?

Dispatchers work for the driver—not for the shipper or broker. Their main goal is to keep your truck full, your rates high, and your schedule optimized.


Pros and Cons

Pros:

  • Advocates for your best interest.

  • Handles time-consuming admin and broker calls.

  • Keeps your business organized and profitable.

  • Customizes loads based on your preferences.


Cons:

  • Not licensed to broker freight, so they work with brokers to find freight.

  • Typically charge a small percentage fee for their services.


Having a dispatcher can significantly ease your workload, allowing you to focus on driving and delivering.



Freight Broker vs. Dispatcher: A Quick Comparison


Understanding the primary differences between freight brokers and dispatchers can clarify your business needs. Here’s a quick comparison:


| Feature | Freight Broker | Dispatcher |

|--------------------|---------------------------|------------------------------------|

| Works For | Shippers (and themselves) | You, the driver |

| Licensure | FMCSA-licensed broker | No FMCSA license required |

| Controls Freight? | Yes | No (they book loads for you through brokers) |

| Primary Goal | Profit from freight margin | Support your business growth |

| Services Provided | Load matching, contracts | Load booking, rate negotiation, admin help, support |

| Paid By | Shipper | Carrier or owner-operator |


This comparison can help you decide who you may need for your specific situation.



Which One Do You Need?


You don’t have to choose one over the other. In fact, dispatchers often work with freight brokers to find the best loads for their drivers.


But if you’re an owner-operator looking for:

  • Consistent support.

  • Someone who works for you.

  • Higher paying loads.

  • Less time dealing with admin and broker calls.

  • A business partner in your corner.


Then a dispatcher is what you need—and that’s where we come in.



How American Truckers LLC Can Help


At American Truckers LLC, we’re proud to be the trusted dispatch partner for owner-operators and small carriers nationwide. We don’t take a cut of the freight. Instead, we work to maximize your earnings and streamline your operations.


What We Offer:

  • Dispatch services starting at just 4%.

  • No forced dispatch—you pick your loads.

  • Paperwork, broker calls, and route planning handled for you.

  • Help booking dry vans, reefers, flatbeds, and hotshots.

  • Fast, reliable, U.S.-based team that works around your schedule.


Choosing the right partner can make an enormous difference in your success as a trucker. With the right support, you can focus on driving while we handle the rest.



Ready to Drive Smarter?


Skip the confusion and get the support you need. With American Truckers LLC dispatch services, you’ll always have someone in your corner fighting for your success.


Call us at 612-293-8157 or visit www.americantruckersllc.com to get started today.

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