📖 Module 2

📖 Glossary of Terms and Abbreviations

A complete reference of professional freight dispatcher terminology

Module 2 of 15 13%

A B C D E F H I L M N O P Q R S T W

💡 Search by part of a word, an abbreviation, or a phrase. Esc to clear

💡 About the glossary:

A truck dispatcher's job in the US involves a huge number of abbreviations and specialized terms. This glossary contains 75+ key terms that you'll use every day. Bookmark this page.

📚 Glossary Contents

🚛 Work Terms and Statuses 📄 Documentation ⚖️ Regulations and Systems 🚚 Cargo and Equipment Types 💰 Financial Terms 🚚 Types of Operations 🗺️ Routes and Planning 🏭 Warehouses and Operations 🛡️ Safety and Verification 🚨 Problems and Situations 📞 Communication and Processes 📄 Additional Documents

🚛 Work Terms and Statuses

Terms you'll use every day when communicating with drivers and brokers.

ETA Status

Estimated Time of Arrival

Estimated time of arrival

▼

Estimated time of arrival of the driver at pickup or delivery. One of the most important terms in a dispatcher's work.

Usage examples:

"What's your ETA to the pickup?" - "What's your ETA to the pickup?"
"Driver's ETA is 14:00 EST" - "Driver's ETA is 14:00 Eastern time"
"Update broker with new ETA" - "Update the broker with the new ETA"

Important: Always specify the time zone (EST, CST, MST, PST) when reporting ETA!

🔊 /iː.tiː.eɪ/ ⚡ Frequent

"What's your ETA to the shipper?" — "What's your ETA to the shipper?"

FCFS Status

First Come First Served

First come, first served

▼

"First come, first served." Means a live queue at the warehouse instead of a fixed time (appointment).

What this means:

No specific pickup/delivery time
The driver joins the queue on arrival
Wait time can range from 30 minutes to 6+ hours
Usually the first 2 hours are free, after that detention starts accruing

Tip: For FCFS, advise the driver to arrive early in the morning (6-7 AM) to avoid long lines.

🔊 /ɛf.siː.ɛf.ɛs/ ⚡ Frequent

"It's FCFS, no appointment needed" — "It's FCFS, no appointment needed"

OTP / OTD Metric

On Time Pickup / On Time Delivery

On-time pickup / On-time delivery

▼

Timeliness indicators for arrival at pickup and delivery. Critically important metrics for reputation.

Industry standards:

OTP: 95%+ is considered excellent
OTD: 98%+ is required to work with premium brokers
Being 15+ minutes late = an OTP/OTD violation

Consequences of low performance: Loss of access to the best loads, reduced rates, contract termination.

🔊 /oʊ.tiː.piː/ 📊 Medium

"Our OTP rate is 95%" — "Our on-time rate is 95%"

TONU Compensation

Truck Order Not Used

Truck ordered but not used

▼

Compensation for a load cancellation by the broker, when the truck has already arrived at the location or was en route.

Typical TONU rates:

$50-100 if cancelled before arrival at the location
$100-200 if the driver is already on site
$200-400 if the driver has started loading
50% of the rate confirmation if the load is partially loaded

Important: TONU must be specified in the rate confirmation! Without this, getting compensation is difficult.

🔊 /toʊ.nuː/ ⚡ Frequent

"If driver cancels, we charge TONU" — "If the driver cancels, we charge TONU"

Layover Compensation

Layover Pay

Pay for waiting (overnight stay)

▼

Pay for forced downtime of the driver (usually more than a day) through the fault of the broker or client.

When it applies:

The load isn't ready for pickup and the driver waits 24+ hours
The warehouse is closed for the weekend and the driver can't unload
Delay caused by the shipper/receiver

Typical rates: $200-400 for every 24 hours of downtime.
Tip: Always specify layover in the rate confirmation: "Layover: $300/day after 24 hours"

🔊 /ˈleɪ.oʊ.vər/ 📊 Medium

"Driver needs layover pay, pickup rescheduled" — "Driver needs layover pay, pickup rescheduled"

Detention Compensation

Detention Pay

Pay for delay at the warehouse

▼

Hourly pay for waiting at the warehouse beyond the free time (usually the first 2 hours are free).

Standard structure:

First 2 hours: free (free time)
After 2 hours: $25-75 per hour
Some warehouses give 3-4 hours of free time

How it's calculated: From the moment of check-in at the warehouse until the moment the driver leaves the premises.

Example: Check-in at 10:00, departure at 15:30 = 5.5 hours. First 2 hours free, 3.5 hours × $50 = $175 detention.

🔊 /dɪˈtɛn.ʃən/ ⚡ Frequent

"Driver has been waiting 3 hours, requesting detention" — "Driver has been waiting 3 hours, requesting detention"

Deadhead Route

Deadhead Miles / Empty Miles

Empty miles without a load

▼

"Empty mileage." The distance the driver travels without a load to the site of the next pickup.

Why it matters:

Deadhead = expenses without income (fuel, time, wear)
Every deadhead mile costs $1.50-2.50
The dispatcher's goal: minimize deadhead

Industry rule: Deadhead should not exceed 10% of the load's total mileage.

Example: A load pays $2.50/mile for 500 miles, but deadhead is 100 miles. Real rate: ($2.50 × 500) / 600 = $2.08/mile.

🔊 /ˈdɛd.hɛd/ ⚡ Frequent

"How many deadhead miles to pickup?" — "How many deadhead miles to pickup?"

📄 Documentation

The main documents a dispatcher works with daily.

BOL Document

Bill of Lading

Bill of lading

▼

The primary transport document (bill of lading), issued at pickup. Contains information about weight, pallet count, and addresses.

What the BOL contains:

Shipper information (sender)
Consignee information (receiver)
Description of the cargo (commodity)
Weight and number of units (pieces/pallets)
BOL number (unique number)
Driver's signature upon receiving the load

Important: The driver MUST inspect the load at pickup and note any damage on the BOL!

🔊 /biː.oʊ.ɛl/ ⚡ Frequent

"Make sure driver gets signed BOL" — "Make sure the driver gets a signed BOL"

POD Document

Proof of Delivery

Proof of delivery

▼

Proof of delivery. This is the BOL, signed by the receiver at delivery.

What should be on the POD:

Receiver's signature
Company stamp
Date and time of delivery
Printed name of the person who received the load

Critically important: Without the POD the broker won't pay! The driver should send a photo of the POD right after unloading.

Submission deadline: The POD must be sent to the broker within 24-48 hours after delivery.

🔊 /piː.oʊ.diː/ ⚡ Frequent

"Send POD to broker for payment" — "Send the POD to the broker for payment"

PU Operation

Pick Up

Pick up the load / Pickup

▼

Pickup — the process of collecting the load from the sender (shipper). The abbreviation PU is used in the Rate Con, TMS, and correspondence with brokers.

Where it appears:

In the Rate Con: "PU Date", "PU Address", "PU Time"
In correspondence: "Driver is at PU location"
In TMS systems as a load status
In Load Boards: "PU: Chicago, IL"

Important: Always confirm the exact PU time with the broker — open time or appointment.

🔊 /pɪk.ʌp/ ⚡ Frequent

"What's the PU address?" — "What's the pickup address?"

PO Document

Purchase Order

Purchase order number

▼

The order number that the shipper or receiver assigns to their own order. It appears on the Rate Con and the BOL to identify the load.

Where it appears:

In the Rate Con: the "PO#" or "PO Number" field
On the BOL: for matching at pickup and delivery
Entering the warehouse: security may ask for the PO#
In correspondence: "What's the PO number for this load?"

Important: The driver must know the PO# — without it they may not be let onto the warehouse property.

🔊 /piː.oʊ/ 📊 Medium

"Give the guard your PO number" — "Give the guard your PO number"

RC Document

Rate Confirmation

Rate confirmation

▼

The agreement between broker and carrier for a specific load, specifying the price and terms.

What should be in the RC:

Broker information (MC/DOT number, contacts)
Carrier information (MC/DOT number, contacts)
Pickup address, date, time
Delivery address, date, time
Rate — for example: $2,500
Commodity (type of load)
Weight
Equipment type (Dry Van, Reefer, etc.)
Detention terms ($50/hour after 2 hours)
Layover terms ($300/day after 24 hours)
TONU terms ($100 cancellation fee)
Payment terms (Quick Pay, Standard 30 days)

Important: ALWAYS read the RC before signing! Check all the terms.

🔊 /ɑːr.siː/ ⚡ Frequent

"Did you receive the rate con?" — "Did you receive the rate confirmation?"

MC Number Registration

Motor Carrier Number

Carrier number (license)

▼

The unique number of a transportation company, authorizing commercial carriage between states (interstate commerce).

What you need to know:

Issued by the FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration)
Format: MC-123456 or MC123456
Required for all carriers and brokers
Can be verified on the FMCSA website or through Carrier411

Verifying an MC: Always verify a broker's MC number before booking a load! Scammers often use fake MC numbers.

🔊 /ɛm.siː/ 📊 Medium

"What's your MC number?" — "What's your MC number?"

⚖️ Regulations & Systems

Federal regulations and systems that govern the trucking industry.

ELD Equipment

Electronic Logging Device

Electronic logging device

▼

Electronic logbook, a device for automatically tracking a driver's working hours.

What an ELD does:

Automatically records driving hours
Tracks the driver's status (Driving, On Duty, Sleeper, Off Duty)
Connects to the truck's ECM (Engine Control Module)
Syncs with FMCSA
Prevents HOS violations

ELD Mandate: Since December 2017, an ELD has been mandatory for all commercial drivers.

Popular ELD systems: KeepTruckin, Samsara, Omnitracs, Geotab, Motive.

🔊 /iː.ɛl.diː/ ⚡ Common

"Driver's ELD shows 5 hours left" — "The driver's ELD shows 5 hours remaining"

HOS Regulations

Hours of Service

Driver working-hour rules

▼

Federal regulations that limit the number of hours a driver can spend behind the wheel.

Core HOS rules (2024):

11-Hour Driving Limit: Maximum of 11 hours of driving after 10 hours off duty
14-Hour Limit: No driving after the 14th hour since the start of the shift
30-Minute Break: Mandatory 30-minute break after 8 hours of driving
60/70-Hour Limit: Maximum of 60 hours in 7 days or 70 hours in 8 days
34-Hour Restart: The clock resets after 34 hours off duty

Important for dispatchers: Plan routes with HOS in mind! Violations = fines of $1,000-11,000.

🔊 /eɪtʃ.oʊ.ɛs/ ⚡ Common

"Driver is out of HOS, needs 10-hour break" — "The driver is out of hours, needs a 10-hour break"

DOT Regulator

Department of Transportation

U.S. Department of Transportation

▼

U.S. Department of Transportation, the primary regulator of the trucking industry.

What DOT regulates:

Issuing DOT numbers (registration number)
Safety oversight (safety ratings)
Truck and driver inspections
HOS rules
Drug & Alcohol testing
Medical requirements for drivers

DOT Number: A unique number identifying a company. Format: DOT 1234567.

Checking DOT: Use FMCSA SMS (Safety Measurement System) to check a company's safety rating.

🔊 /diː.oʊ.tiː/ 📊 Medium

"Is the truck DOT compliant?" — "Is the truck DOT compliant?"

TMS Technology

Transportation Management System

Transportation management system

▼

Software for managing logistics and tracking freight.

Core TMS functions:

Load management
Real-time truck tracking (GPS tracking)
Document management (BOL, POD, RC)
Billing and invoicing
Reports and analytics
Integration with load boards
Driver communication

Popular TMS platforms: McLeod, TMW Systems, Axon, TruckingOffice, Rose Rocket, Turvo.

For dispatchers: Knowing the TMS is a required skill. Most companies use a TMS for all operations.

🔊 /tiː.ɛm.ɛs/ 📊 Medium

"Update the load status in TMS" — "Update the load status in the TMS"

🚚 Cargo Types & Equipment

Classification of freight and trailer types used in the industry.

FTL Cargo type

Full Truckload

Full truckload

▼

A full truckload of a single shipment from one shipper to one receiver.

Characteristics of FTL:

One pickup, one delivery
The cargo fills the entire trailer (or most of it)
Usually 10+ pallets or 10,000+ lbs
Higher rates than LTL
Faster delivery (no intermediate stops)

Typical FTL rates: $1.50-3.50/mile depending on the lane, season, and cargo type.

🔊 /ɛf.tiː.ɛl/ ⚡ Common

"This is an FTL shipment, full truck" — "This is an FTL, a full truckload"

LTL Cargo type

Less Than Truckload

Partial load (consolidated freight)

▼

A partial load, where freight from several different customers rides in the same trailer.

Characteristics of LTL:

Multiple pickups and deliveries
The cargo fills only part of the trailer (1-9 pallets)
Usually under 10,000 lbs
Lower rates per mile
Slower delivery (many stops)
Requires more planning and coordination

For dispatchers: LTL is harder to manage but allows you to maximize truck utilization.

🔊 /ɛl.tiː.ɛl/ 📊 Medium

"It's LTL, only 6 pallets" — "It's LTL, only 6 pallets"

Dry Van Equipment

Dry Van Trailer

Enclosed dry trailer

▼

A standard enclosed trailer (either sheeted or all-metal) for hauling dry freight.

Characteristics of Dry Van:

The most common trailer type (80% of the market)
Length: 53 feet (standard), 48 feet (less common)
Capacity: 26 pallets, up to 45,000 lbs
Protection from weather and theft
No temperature control

Typical freight: Clothing, electronics, furniture, packaged goods, consumer products.

Rates: $1.50-2.50/mile (the industry's base rate).

🔊 /draɪ væn/ ⚡ Common

"We need a 53' dry van for this load" — "We need a 53-foot dry van"

Reefer Equipment

Refrigerated Trailer

Refrigerated trailer

▼

A reefer, a trailer with a refrigeration unit for hauling perishable goods.

Characteristics of Reefer:

Temperature control from -20°F to +70°F
Length: 53 feet (standard)
Capacity: 24 pallets (less than a dry van due to insulation)
Requires fuel for the refrigeration unit (extra cost)
Higher rates than dry van

Typical freight: Meat, dairy, fruit, vegetables, frozen goods, pharmaceuticals.

Rates: $2.00-3.50/mile (20-40% higher than dry van).

Important: Always check the temperature at loading and record it on the BOL!

🔊 /ˈriː.fər/ ⚡ Common

"Set reefer temp to 34°F" — "Set the reefer temperature to 34°F"

Flatbed Equipment

Flatbed Trailer

Open flatbed trailer

▼

An open platform for hauling oversized or heavy freight.

Characteristics of Flatbed:

No walls or roof
Length: 48-53 feet
Weight capacity: up to 48,000 lbs
Requires cargo securement (straps, chains, tarps)
Loaded/unloaded by crane or forklift

Typical freight: Building materials, metal, machinery, pipe, lumber, oversized loads.

Rates: $2.50-4.00/mile (a premium for specialization).

For dispatchers: Flatbed requires special driver skills (load securement). Not all drivers work flatbed.

🔊 /ˈflæt.bɛd/ 📊 Medium

"Load requires tarping on flatbed" — "The load requires tarping on the flatbed"

💼 Additional Important Terms

Carrier Participant

Motor Carrier / Trucking Company

Carrier / Trucking company

▼

A carrier - a company or owner-operator that owns trucks and performs the hauling.

Types of carriers:

Asset-based carrier: Owns its own trucks
Owner-operator: An independent driver with their own truck
Fleet owner: Owner of multiple trucks

🔊 /ˈkær.i.ər/ ⚡ Common

"Which carrier is assigned to this load?" — "Which carrier is assigned to this load?"

Broker Participant

Freight Broker

Freight broker (intermediary)

▼

A broker - an intermediary between shippers (freight owners) and carriers (transportation providers).

What a broker does:

Finds loads from shippers
Posts loads on load boards
Negotiates rates with carriers
Takes a commission (usually 15-25% of the shipper's rate)
Handles documentation
Is responsible for paying the carrier

Largest brokers: C.H. Robinson, TQL, XPO Logistics, Coyote, Echo Global.

🔊 /ˈbroʊ.kər/ ⚡ Common

"The broker is offering $2.50 per mile" — "The broker is offering $2.50 per mile"

Appointment Status

Scheduled Appointment

Scheduled pickup/delivery time

▼

A fixed time for loading or unloading at a warehouse.

Types of appointments:

Firm appointment: A strict time, being late is not acceptable
Window appointment: A time window (e.g. 10:00 AM-2:00 PM)
FCFS: No appointment, first-come-first-served line

Important: Always confirm the appointment 24 hours before arrival!

🔊 /əˈpɔɪnt.mənt/ ⚡ Common

"Pickup appointment is at 8 AM" — "The pickup appointment is at 8 AM"

Backhaul Route

Return Load

Return load

▼

A return load - freight picked up on the way back after delivering the original load.

Why backhaul matters:

Minimizes deadhead miles
Extra income
Improves truck utilization

Tip: Always look for a backhaul before the driver delivers the load!

🔊 /ˈbæk.hɔːl/ 📊 Medium

"Find a backhaul to avoid deadhead" — "Find a backhaul so we don't run empty"

Invoice Document

Freight Invoice

Freight invoice

▼

A bill for payment that the carrier sends to the broker after the load is delivered.

What should be in an invoice:

Load number
Rate confirmation copy
Signed BOL (Bill of Lading)
Signed POD (Proof of Delivery)
Detention charges (if any)
Layover charges (if any)
W-9 form (for the first load with a broker)

Payment terms: Usually 30 days (Net 30), Quick Pay in 1-3 days (with a 3-5% fee).

🔊 /ˈɪn.vɔɪs/ ⚡ Common

"Submit invoice with POD attached" — "Submit the invoice with the POD attached"

💰 Financial Terms

Terms related to payment, billing, and financial operations in the industry.

Quick Pay Finance

Quick Payment Service

Fast payment (for a fee)

▼

Fast payment from a broker for an additional fee instead of the standard 30 days.

How Quick Pay works:

The broker pays within 1-5 business days
Fee: usually 1-5% of the load amount
Does not require a contract with a factoring company
Not offered by all brokers

Example: Load worth $2,000. Quick Pay 3% = $60 fee. You receive $1,940 in 2 days instead of $2,000 in 30 days.

When to use it: When you need urgent cash for fuel or other expenses.

🔊 /kwɪk peɪ/ 📊 Medium

"Do you offer quick pay?" — "Do you offer quick pay?"

Factoring Finance

Freight Factoring / Invoice Factoring

Factoring of freight invoices

▼

Selling invoices to a factoring company to get paid immediately.

How Factoring works:

You deliver the load and send the paperwork to the factoring company
The factoring company pays you 80-98% within 24-48 hours
They collect payment from the broker (30 days)
After they receive payment, you get the remaining balance minus the fee

Typical terms:

Advance rate: 90-98% (how much is paid up front)
Factoring fee: 1-5% of the invoice amount
Recourse vs Non-recourse (who bears the risk of non-payment)

Popular factoring companies: RTS Financial, Triumph Business Capital, eCapital, OTR Solutions.

Pros: Stable cash flow, no need to wait 30 days.
Cons: The fee eats into profit, contracts are usually 6-12 months.

🔊 /ˈfæk.tər.ɪŋ/ 📊 Medium

"We use factoring for faster payment" — "We use factoring for faster payment"

Net 30 Finance

Net 30 Days Payment Terms

Payment within 30 days

▼

The standard payment term is 30 days from the delivery of the load.

Payment term options:

Net 15: Payment in 15 days (rare)
Net 30: Payment in 30 days (standard)
Net 45: Payment in 45 days (avoid!)
Net 60-90: Very long, only for large clients

Important: Always confirm payment terms before booking a load! Write it into the rate confirmation.

🔊 /nɛt ˈθɜːr.ti/ ⚡ Frequent

"Payment terms are Net 30" — "Payment terms are Net 30"

FSC Finance

Fuel Surcharge

Fuel surcharge

▼

A fuel surcharge to offset fluctuations in diesel fuel prices.

How FSC is calculated:

Based on the national average diesel price (DOE EIA data)
Usually calculated as a percentage of the base rate
Can be fixed ($0.10-0.50/mile) or variable

Example: Base rate $2.00/mile + FSC $0.30/mile = $2.30/mile total.

Important: FSC doesn't always cover the actual rise in fuel prices. Always calculate the all-in rate!

🔊 /ɛf.ɛs.siː/ 📊 Medium

"Is FSC included in the rate?" — "Is FSC included in the rate?"

Accessorials Finance

Accessorial Charges

Additional charges

▼

Additional charges for services beyond standard dock-to-dock delivery.

Typical accessorials:

Detention: $50-75/hour after 2 hours of free time
Layover: $200-400/day for a 24+ hour delay
TONU: $100-400 for load cancellation
Lumper fee: $100-400 for unloading
Inside delivery: $50-150 for delivery inside a building
Residential delivery: $75-200 for delivery to a residential area
Liftgate service: $75-150 for use of a liftgate
Appointment fee: $25-75 for scheduling an appointment time
Redelivery: $100-300 for a repeat delivery attempt

Critically important: ALL accessorials must be spelled out in the rate confirmation BEFORE booking the load!

🔊 /ˌæk.sɛˈsɔːr.i.əlz/ 📊 Medium

"Any accessorials on this load?" — "Any accessorials on this load?"

Lumper Fee Finance

Lumper Service Fee

Payment for warehouse loaders

▼

Payment for unloading services for the load at a warehouse by a third party (not the driver).

How it works:

The driver arrives at a warehouse (usually Walmart, Target, a large DC)
The warehouse requires the use of its lumper service
The driver pays the lumper fee in cash or by check
The driver receives a receipt (lumper receipt)
The dispatcher adds the lumper fee to the invoice for reimbursement

Typical rates: $100-400 depending on the number of pallets and complexity.

Important: Always write into the RC: "Lumper fees reimbursable with receipt." Without this, the broker may refuse reimbursement!

🔊 /ˈlʌm.pər fiː/ 📊 Medium

"Lumper fee is $250, who pays?" — "Lumper fee is $250, who pays?"

🔊 /ˈlʌm.pər/ 📊 Medium

"Lumper required at this warehouse" — "Lumper required at this warehouse"

RPM Finance

Rate Per Mile

Rate per mile

▼

Rate per mile - the primary metric for load profitability.

How to calculate RPM:
RPM = Total Rate ÷ Total Miles (including deadhead)

Example 1 (no deadhead):
Load: $2,500 for 1,000 miles
RPM = $2,500 ÷ 1,000 = $2.50/mile ✅

Example 2 (with deadhead):
Load: $2,500 for 1,000 miles + 200 miles deadhead
RPM = $2,500 ÷ 1,200 = $2.08/mile ⚠️

Minimum RPM for profitability (2024):

Dry Van: $1.80-2.00/mile minimum
Reefer: $2.20-2.50/mile minimum
Flatbed: $2.50-3.00/mile minimum

🔊 /ɑːr.piː.ɛm/ ⚡ Frequent

"What's the RPM on this load?" — "What's the RPM on this load?"

All-in Rate Finance

All-Inclusive Rate

Full rate (everything included)

▼

The full rate including all costs and additional charges.

What All-in Rate includes:

Base rate per mile
Fuel surcharge (FSC)
Detention (if expected)
Lumper fees (if known)
Tolls
Other accessorials

Example calculation:
Base rate: $2,000
FSC: $300
Detention (expected): $100
Lumper: $150
All-in Rate: $2,550

Tip: Always calculate the all-in rate before accepting a load!

🔊 /ɔːl ɪn reɪt/ ⚡ Frequent

"The all-in rate is $3,200" — "The all-in rate is $3,200"

🚚 Types of Operations and Specialized Loads

Different ways of loading/unloading and specialized types of hauls in the trucking industry.

Drop and Hook Operation

Drop & Hook / Drop-n-Hook

Drop and hook (no waiting)

▼

A quick trailer swap without waiting for loading or unloading.

How it works:

The driver arrives at the warehouse with an empty trailer
Drops the empty trailer in the yard
Hooks up an already-loaded trailer
Leaves within 15-30 minutes

Advantages:

Saves time (no 2-6 hour wait)
More loads per day
Less detention charges
Drivers are happier

Rates: Usually $50-150 lower than live load, but the time saved makes up for it.

🔊 /drɒp ænd hʊk/ ⚡ Frequent

"It's drop and hook, no wait time" — "It's drop and hook, no wait time"

Live Load / Live Unload Operation

Live Loading / Live Unloading

Loading/unloading while the driver waits

▼

The driver waits while the load is being loaded or unloaded.

Process:

The driver arrives with an empty trailer
Pulls up to the dock
Waits while the warehouse loads the freight (usually 2-6 hours)
Gets the BOL and leaves

Disadvantages:

Long wait times
Risk of detention charges
Fewer loads per day
Drivers are unhappy

When it's unavoidable: Small warehouses without a yard for trailers, special loads requiring the driver's presence.

🔊 /laɪv loʊd/ ⚡ Frequent

"It's a live load, expect 2-hour wait" — "It's a live load, expect a 2-hour wait"

Power Only Operation

Power Only Load

Tractor only (no trailer)

▼

The carrier provides only the truck and driver; the trailer belongs to the shipper or broker.

How Power Only works:

The shipper/broker owns the trailer
The trailer is already loaded and ready
The carrier arrives, hooks up the trailer, hauls it, and drops it
No responsibility for the trailer

Advantages:

Always drop and hook (fast)
No need to buy a trailer
Lower maintenance costs

Rates: Usually $1.50-2.50/mile (lower than with your own trailer).

Popular with: Amazon Relay, large retailers with their own trailers.

🔊 /ˈpaʊ.ər ˈoʊn.li/ 📊 Medium

"We need power only for this trailer" — "We need power only for this trailer"

Team Load Operation

Team Driver Load

Load for two drivers

▼

A load requiring two drivers, who work in shifts to keep the truck moving continuously.

How it works:

Two drivers in one truck
One drives while the other sleeps in the sleeper berth
They switch every 10-11 hours
The truck moves 20-22 hours a day

When it's used:

Urgent loads (expedited freight)
Long distances (2,000+ miles)
Tight delivery windows

Rates: $3.00-5.00/mile (1.5-2 times higher than solo loads).

Example: LA → NYC (2,800 miles). Solo driver: 4-5 days. Team: 2-3 days.

🔊 /tiːm loʊd/ 📊 Medium

"This is a team load, 2 drivers required" — "This is a team load, 2 drivers required"

Hazmat Specialization

Hazardous Materials

Hazardous freight

▼

Hazardous materials requiring a special permit and training.

Hazmat classes:

Class 1: Explosives
Class 2: Gases (compressed, liquefied)
Class 3: Flammable liquids (gasoline, alcohol)
Class 4: Flammable solids
Class 5: Oxidizers
Class 6: Toxic substances
Class 7: Radioactive materials
Class 8: Corrosive substances (acids)
Class 9: Miscellaneous hazardous materials

Requirements:

Hazmat endorsement on the CDL
TSA background check
Special training
Placards on the trailer

Rates: 20-40% higher than regular loads ($2.50-4.00/mile).

🔊 /ˈhæz.mæt/ 📊 Medium

"Does driver have hazmat endorsement?" — "Does the driver have a hazmat endorsement?"

Oversized / Overweight Specialization

Oversized or Overweight Load

Oversized / Overweight load

▼

Oversized or overweight loads that exceed standard limits.

Standard limits:

Width: 8.5 feet (102 inches)
Height: 13.5 feet
Length: 53-foot trailer + truck
Weight: 80,000 lbs gross vehicle weight

Requirements for oversized loads:

Oversize/overweight permits (for every state!)
Pilot cars (escort vehicles) for very large loads
Special routes
Time restrictions (daytime only, not during rush hour)

Rates: $3.00-6.00+/mile depending on size.

Typical loads: Construction equipment, mobile homes, wind turbines.

🔊 /ˌoʊ.vərˈsaɪzd/ 📉 Rare

"Oversized load needs pilot car and permits" — "Oversized load needs a pilot car and permits"

Reefer Load Specialization

Refrigerated Load

Refrigerated load

▼

A refrigerated load requiring a specific temperature to be maintained.

Types of freight:

Food products (meat, dairy, produce)
Pharmaceuticals and medications
Flowers and plants
Chemicals requiring refrigeration

Temperature settings:

Frozen: -10°F to 0°F (ice cream, meat)
Chilled: 32°F to 40°F (dairy, produce)
Temperature controlled: any specified temperature

Rates: $0.20-0.40/mile higher due to fuel for the reefer unit.

Important: Constant temperature monitoring, additional fuel consumption.

🔊 /ˈriː.fər/ ⚡ Frequent

"Set reefer to 34°F continuous" — "Set the reefer to 34°F continuous"

Flatbed Load Equipment

Flatbed Trailer Load

Load on an open trailer

▼

An open platform for hauling oversized and heavy loads.

Typical loads:

Building materials (lumber, steel beams)
Metal structures
Equipment and machinery
Pipes and long materials

Requirements:

Tarping (covering with a tarp) for weather protection
Securing (using chains, straps, binders)
Knowledge of DOT load-securement rules

Rates: $2.50-4.00/mile (higher than dry van due to complexity).

Pros: Higher rates, less competition. Cons: Physical work with tarps.

🔊 /ˈflæt.bɛd/ 📊 Medium

"Flatbed load requires tarping and straps" — "Flatbed load requires tarping and straps"

Step Deck Equipment

Step Deck Trailer / Stepdeck

Low-deck trailer

▼

A low-deck trailer with two levels for hauling tall freight.

Specs:

Deck height: 3.5 feet (lower than a flatbed's 5 feet)
Allows hauling freight up to 10 feet tall
Length: 48-53 feet
Capacity: up to 48,000 lbs

Typical freight:

Tall equipment
Transformers
Large machinery
Containers and modules

Rates: $2.80-4.50/mile (premium for specialization).

Advantage: Can haul freight that won't fit on a regular flatbed.

🔊 /stɛp dɛk/ 📉 Rare

"Need a step deck for this machinery" — "Need a step deck for this machinery"

Hotshot Specialization

Hotshot Trucking

Expedited delivery of small loads

▼

Expedited delivery of small loads using a pickup truck (usually a Ford F-350, Ram 3500) with a trailer.

Hotshot characteristics:

Smaller than a Class 8 truck
Capacity: 10,000-26,000 lbs
Fast delivery (expedited)
Usually 1-5 pallets or small equipment

Advantages:

No CDL required (if under 26,000 lbs)
Lower startup investment ($50-80K vs $150-200K)
Maneuvers faster
Access to places a big truck can't reach

Rates: $1.50-3.00/mile, but usually short distances.

Typical freight: Oilfield parts, urgent equipment, small machinery.

Popular in: Texas, Oklahoma, North Dakota (oil industry).

🔊 /ˈhɒt.ʃɒt/ 📉 Rare

"Can you do hotshot delivery?" — "Can you do hotshot delivery?"

LTL Operation

Less Than Truckload

Partial load (consolidated freight)

▼

A partial load - several shipments from different shippers in one trailer.

How it works:

The carrier collects freight from several shippers
Freight is consolidated at a distribution center
One trailer carries 5-15 different shipments
Each shipment is usually 1-6 pallets or 150-10,000 lbs
Multiple pickups and deliveries along the route

Advantages:

Cheaper for small shipments ($0.50-1.50/mile per pallet)
No need to fill the whole trailer
Suited for regular small shipments
Large terminal network and coverage

Disadvantages:

Slower delivery (3-7 days instead of 1-3)
More handling - higher damage risk
Harder to track - freight moves between terminals
Requires more paperwork and coordination

Major LTL carriers: XPO Logistics, Old Dominion, FedEx Freight, YRC Worldwide, Estes Express.

For dispatchers: LTL is harder to manage but lets you maximize truck utilization and work with smaller clients.

🔊 /ɛl.tiː.ɛl/ 📊 Medium

"It's LTL, only 6 pallets" — "It's LTL, only 6 pallets"

FTL Operation

Full Truckload

Full truckload

▼

A full trailer load - the whole trailer for one shipper.

How it works:

One shipper rents the entire trailer (53 feet)
Direct delivery from point A to point B
The load takes up 10+ pallets or 10,000+ lbs
Usually 40,000-45,000 lbs maximum
One pickup, one delivery (or several stops at one customer)

Advantages:

Fast delivery (1-3 days coast-to-coast)
Less handling - lower damage risk
Simple tracking - one truck, one load
More predictable delivery times
Cheaper per pound for large shipments

Typical rates:

Short haul (up to 250 miles): $1.50-2.50/mile
Regional (250-500 miles): $2.00-3.00/mile
Long haul (500+ miles): $1.80-2.80/mile
Depends on season, lane, and freight type

For dispatchers: FTL is the standard for owner-operators. Easier to manage, higher margin, less headache with paperwork.

🔊 /ɛf.tiː.ɛl/ ⚡ Frequent

"This is an FTL shipment, full truck" — "This is an FTL shipment, full truck"

Intermodal Operation

Intermodal Transportation

Intermodal transportation

▼

Combined transportation - a container moves by truck, rail, and/or ship.

How it works:

Freight is loaded into a standard container (20' or 40')
A truck hauls the container to a rail yard
A train carries the container over long distance
Another truck picks up the container and hauls it to the final point
The freight is never transferred - it stays in the container

Advantages:

10-40% cheaper for long distances (1000+ miles)
More environmentally friendly (rail is more efficient than trucking)
Less equipment wear
Predictable train schedules

Disadvantages:

1-2 days slower than direct FTL
Limited to the rail network - not available everywhere
Requires drayage on both ends
Less timing flexibility

Typical rates: $1.20-1.80/mile for long haul (cheaper than FTL), plus drayage of $200-400 on each end.

Used by: Major retailers (Walmart, Target), manufacturers for regular shipments between plants and distribution centers.

🔊 /ˌɪn.tərˈmoʊ.dəl/ 📊 Medium

"This is an intermodal container move" — "This is an intermodal container move"

Drayage Operation

Drayage Service

Short-haul move from a port/rail station

▼

A short container move - usually from a port to a warehouse or rail yard.

How it works:

A truck with a chassis picks up the container from a port or rail yard
Hauls the container a short distance (usually 50-100 miles)
Delivers it to a warehouse, distribution center, or another terminal
Returns the empty container (if required)

Types of drayage:

Port drayage: From a seaport to a warehouse
Rail drayage: From a rail yard to the final point
Shuttle drayage: Between two nearby points
Expedited drayage: Priority urgent delivery

Notes:

Flat rates of $200-500 per trip (depending on distance)
Often includes detention charges ($50-100/hour after free time)
Requires a chassis - may be included or separate
Strict appointment windows at ports

Challenges:

Port congestion - long waits in line
Chassis shortage - need to find an available chassis
Demurrage fees - penalties for delaying the container
Tight schedules - need to make the port cutoff time

For dispatchers: Drayage is a specialized niche. Good money for local drivers, but requires knowledge of port operations and paperwork.

🔊 /ˈdreɪ.ɪdʒ/ 📉 Rare

"We need drayage from the port" — "We need drayage from the port"

Expedited Freight Specialization

Expedited Shipping

Express delivery

▼

Urgent delivery - a tight delivery window, often requires team drivers.

How it works:

Freight must be delivered ASAP - usually within 24-48 hours
Direct delivery with no stops (except for fuel)
Often requires team drivers for non-stop driving
Priority over regular loads
Strict penalties for being late

When it's used:

A production line is down - parts needed urgently
Medical supplies or organs for transplant
Just-in-time manufacturing
Emergency situations
Missed connections - need to make up for the delay

Rates:

2-3 times higher than regular FTL rates
Solo driver: $3.50-5.00/mile
Team drivers: $4.50-7.00/mile
Extreme expedited: $8.00-12.00/mile

Requirements:

A reliable driver with a clean record
Good equipment (a newer truck)
24/7 communication and tracking
Readiness for immediate dispatch

For dispatchers: Expedited is high stress, but great money. You need reliable drivers and must be ready for emergency calls at any time.

🔊 /ˈɛk.spɪ.daɪ.tɪd/ 📊 Medium

"This is expedited, must deliver by tomorrow" — "This is expedited, must deliver by tomorrow"

White Glove Service Specialization

White Glove Delivery

Delivery with extra care

▼

Premium delivery - includes inside delivery, unpacking, assembly, debris removal.

What's included:

Inside delivery: Bringing the item inside the building (not just to the door)
Unpacking: Removing it from boxes and packaging materials
Assembly: Assembling furniture or equipment
Placement: Placing it wherever the customer specifies
Debris removal: Hauling away all packaging and trash
Inspection: Checking for damage together with the customer

Typical freight:

High-end furniture ($5,000-50,000+)
Medical equipment (MRI, X-ray machines)
Art and antiques
High-end electronics and appliances
Trade show exhibits

Driver requirements:

Professional appearance and demeanor
Experience handling expensive freight
Physical fitness for carrying items
Basic furniture assembly skills
Excellent communication with customers

Rates: $3.50-6.00/mile + $150-500 for inside delivery and assembly. Very high margins.

For dispatchers: White Glove is a premium segment. Requires reliable, careful drivers. High rates, but also high responsibility.

🔊 /waɪt ɡlʌv/ 📉 Rare

"White glove delivery required" — "White glove delivery required"

Conestoga Equipment

Conestoga Trailer

Trailer with a sliding tarp roof

▼

A trailer with a sliding roof - weather protection plus top-loading with a crane.

How it works:

The roof and side walls are made of durable tarp material
The roof slides open on rollers along the trailer
Can be loaded from the top by crane or from the side by forklift
After loading, the roof closes - full weather protection

Advantages:

Combines dry van (protection) and flatbed (loading convenience)
Fast top loading/unloading
No tarps needed like on a flatbed
Suited for oversized cargo
Protection from rain, snow, dirt

Typical freight:

Construction materials (lumber, steel beams)
Machinery and equipment
Coils (metal rolls)
Any freight requiring crane loading

Rates: $3.00-4.50/mile (higher than dry van, but lower than specialized flatbed).

Disadvantages: Expensive trailer ($60,000-80,000), requires maintenance of the roller system, limited availability.

For dispatchers: Conestoga is a great niche. Less competition, good rates, convenient for drivers (no tarping needed).

🔊 /ˌkɒn.ɪˈstoʊ.ɡə/ 📉 Rare

"Conestoga trailer for weather protection" — "Conestoga trailer for weather protection"

Tanker Equipment

Tanker Trailer

Tank trailer (for liquids)

▼

A liquid tank trailer - milk, fuel, chemicals.

Tanker types:

Food grade: Milk, juice, vegetable oil, wine
Petroleum: Gasoline, diesel, jet fuel
Chemical: Acids, solvents, industrial chemicals
Dry bulk: Cement, flour, sugar (pneumatic tanker)

Requirements:

Tanker endorsement on the CDL (mandatory)
For hazmat - an additional HazMat endorsement
Special training on liquid surge control
Knowledge of loading/unloading procedures

Driving characteristics:

Liquid surge: The liquid moves inside the tank when braking/turning
High center of gravity - easier to roll over
Need to brake and turn more slowly
Some tankers have baffles to control surge

Rates:

Food grade: $2.00-3.00/mile
Petroleum: $2.50-3.50/mile
Chemical/HazMat: $3.00-4.50/mile
Steady rates year-round

For dispatchers: Tanker is a specialized niche. Requires certified drivers, but offers steady work and good rates.

🔊 /ˈtæŋ.kər/ 📉 Rare

"Tanker endorsement required for this load" — "Tanker endorsement required for this load"

Auto Transport Specialization

Auto Hauler / Car Carrier

Auto hauler (vehicle transport)

▼

Vehicle transportation - a special two-level trailer for 7-10 cars.

Types of auto transport:

Open carrier: Open trailer, 7-10 cars, cheaper
Enclosed carrier: Enclosed trailer, 2-6 cars, for expensive vehicles
Single car trailer: For exotic cars, classic cars

How it works:

Cars are loaded onto a two-level trailer
The upper level raises/lowers hydraulically
Cars are secured with special straps and wheel chocks
The driver must be able to maneuver on narrow ramps

Requirements:

Special loading/unloading training
High insurance ($100,000-1,000,000 cargo insurance)
Careful driving - the cars are expensive
Detailed inspection before/after loading

Rates:

Open carrier: $0.50-1.50 per mile per car
Enclosed carrier: $1.00-3.00 per mile per car
Exotic/classic cars: $2.00-5.00 per mile

Seasonality:

High season: Spring/summer - snowbirds head north
Peak: Fall - snowbirds head south (FL, AZ, TX)
Low season: Winter - less demand

For dispatchers: Auto transport is a specialized niche. Seasonal business, requires high insurance, but good margins.

🔊 /ˈɔː.toʊ/ 📉 Rare

"Auto transport for 6 vehicles to Texas" — "Auto transport for 6 vehicles to Texas"

Livestock Specialization

Livestock Transportation

Livestock transportation

▼

Animal transportation - cattle, hogs, horses.

Types of livestock:

Cattle: Cows, bulls - to processing plants or farms
Hogs: Pigs - usually to slaughterhouses
Horses: Racehorses, show horses - a premium segment
Poultry: Chickens, turkeys - in special crates

Trailer requirements:

A special livestock trailer with ventilation
Multiple levels/compartments for different animals
Non-slip floor
Watering system for long trips
Easy to clean and disinfect

USDA regulations:

Maximum 28 hours in transit without rest and feeding
Mandatory stop for water and rest
Prohibition on transporting sick animals
Veterinary certificates for interstate transport
Strict temperature requirements

Rates:

Cattle/hogs: $2.00-3.50/mile
Horses (premium): $3.00-6.00/mile
Depends on distance and type of animal

Challenges:

Unpleasant odor - hard to get rid of
Constant trailer cleaning and disinfection
Stress on the animals - requires careful driving
Limited rest stops with livestock facilities
High liability - animals can die

For dispatchers: Livestock is an unpopular niche due to its difficulty and odor. But steady demand and less competition. Requires specialized drivers.

🔊 /ˈlaɪv.stɒk/ 📉 Rare

"Livestock transport needs special permits" — "Livestock transport needs special permits"

🗺️ Routes and Planning

Terms related to route planning and types of hauls.

Lane Route

Freight Lane / Shipping Lane

Freight route

▼

A specific route between two points (cities or regions).

Examples of lanes:

LA → Chicago lane
Dallas → Atlanta lane
Seattle → Phoenix lane

Why it's important to know lanes:

Each lane has its own typical rates
Some lanes are more profitable (headhaul)
Others are less profitable (backhaul)
Specializing in 2-3 lanes = more knowledge and contacts

Tip: Learn 3-5 core lanes in your region thoroughly!

🔊 /leɪn/ ⚡ Frequent

"What lanes are you running?" — "What routes do you run?"

Headhaul Route

Headhaul Lane

Primary (profitable) route

▼

A primary, profitable route with high freight demand.

Characteristics of a headhaul:

Lots of available loads
High rates ($2.50-3.50+/mile)
Competition for trucks (more loads than trucks)
Easy to find freight

Examples of headhaul lanes:

California → Texas (produce, goods from ports)
Chicago → East Coast (distribution hub)
Texas → Florida (goods, produce)

Strategy: Maximize headhaul miles, minimize backhaul/deadhead.

🔊 /ˈhɛd.hɔːl/ 📊 Medium

"Chicago to Dallas is a strong headhaul" — "Chicago-Dallas is a strong primary route"

Round Trip Route

Round Trip Load

Load there and back

▼

There and back with freight in both directions.

Ideal scenario:

Load A: Dallas → LA ($2,500, 1,400 miles)
Load B: LA → Dallas ($2,300, 1,400 miles)
Total: $4,800 for 2,800 miles = $1.71/mile
No deadhead miles!

Advantages:

Maximum efficiency
Predictable income
Driver knows the route

Tip: Always look for a backhaul BEFORE the driver delivers the first load!

🔊 /raʊnd trɪp/ 📊 Medium

"Can you find a round trip?" — "Can you find a there-and-back load?"

Relay Operation

Relay Load / Driver Relay

Relay haul

▼

Handing off a load to another driver at an intermediate point.

How a relay works:

Driver A hauls the load from LA to Phoenix (400 miles)
Meets Driver B in Phoenix
Driver B hauls the load onward to Dallas (1,000 miles)
Driver A returns to LA with another load

Advantages:

Drivers work regional (home every night)
Freight moves faster (no 10-hour breaks)
Less driver turnover

Used by: Large carriers for long-haul freight with regional drivers.

🔊 /ˈriː.leɪ/ 📉 Rare

"We'll relay this load at Memphis" — "We'll do a driver swap in Memphis"

Dedicated Lane Route

Dedicated Freight Lane

Dedicated contract route

▼

A permanent route with one customer under contract.

Characteristics:

The same route every week
Fixed rates (usually below spot market)
Guaranteed freight volume
Long-term contract (6-12 months)

Example: Walmart distribution center → Walmart stores. The same routes every week.

Pros: Stability, predictability.
Cons: Rates below spot market, less flexibility.

🔊 /ˈdɛd.ɪ.keɪ.tɪd/ 📊 Medium

"We have a dedicated lane for you" — "We have a dedicated route for you"

Regional Type of work

Regional Trucking

Regional hauling

▼

Working within a single region, usually the driver is home every night or every 2-3 days.

Characteristics of regional:

Radius: 250-500 miles from home
Home: every night or 2-3 times a week
Short hauls: 200-500 miles

Rates: $1.80-2.50/mile (lower than OTR, but better work-life balance).

Popular with: Drivers with families, experienced drivers.

🔊 /ˈriː.dʒən.əl/ 📊 Medium

"Driver prefers regional runs" — "The driver prefers regional runs"

🏭 Warehouses and Operations

Terms related to warehouse work and loading terminals.

Lumper Personnel

Lumper Service / Unloader

Warehouse unloading service

▼

A warehouse worker who unloads the truck for a fee (not the driver, not warehouse staff).

How lumper service works:

The warehouse requires their lumper service (usually Walmart, Target, Costco)
The driver can't unload it themselves
The lumper company unloads the truck
The driver pays the lumper fee ($100-400)
Receives a lumper receipt
The dispatcher adds it to the invoice for reimbursement

Popular lumper companies: Nationwide Warehouse Services, Comdata Lumper Services.

🔊 /ˈlʌm.pər/ 📊 Medium

"Lumper required at this warehouse" — "Lumpers are required at this warehouse"

Dock Infrastructure

Loading Dock

Loading platform

▼

A loading platform at a warehouse for loading/unloading trucks.

Types of docks:

High dock: Platform at trailer height (48 inches)
Ground level: Loading from ground level (requires a liftgate or ramp)
Drive-in dock: The truck drives inside the building

Dock door number: The number of the specific door for loading (e.g., "Dock 15").

Important: Always confirm the dock door number at check-in!

🔊 /dɒk/ ⚡ Frequent

"Back into dock 12 for unloading" — "Back into dock 12 for unloading"

Cross-dock Operation

Cross-docking

Transfer without storage

▼

Transferring goods from one truck to another without warehouse storage.

The cross-docking process:

Truck A brings the load to the terminal
The load is immediately transferred to Truck B
Truck B hauls the load onward
No warehouse storage (or minimal, 24-48 hours)

Advantages:

Fast delivery
Less handling (less damage)
Savings on warehousing costs

Used by: LTL carriers, distribution centers, consolidation terminals.

🔊 /krɒs dɒk/ 📉 Rare

"Cross-dock at Memphis terminal" — "Cross-docking at the Memphis terminal"

Yard Infrastructure

Truck Yard / Trailer Yard

Truck/trailer lot

▼

A parking area for trucks and trailers.

Types of yards:

Shipper/receiver yard: On warehouse property for drop and hook
Carrier yard: A company's home base for storing trucks
Drop yard: An intermediate point for leaving trailers

Yard management: A system for tracking trailers in the yard (numbers, positions).

🔊 /jɑːrd/ 📊 Medium

"Drop trailer in the yard, slot 42" — "Drop the trailer in the yard, slot 42"

Check-in Procedure

Warehouse Check-in

Warehouse check-in

▼

Checking in at a warehouse upon the driver's arrival.

The check-in process:

The driver arrives at the warehouse
Goes to the office (guard shack / shipping office)
Presents documents (BOL, appointment confirmation)
Receives a dock door number
The check-in time is logged (for detention)

Important: Check-in time = the start of the detention clock! Always record the exact time.

🔊 /ˈtʃɛk.ɪn/ ⚡ Frequent

"Driver checked in at the gate" — "The driver checked in at the gate"

🛡️ Safety and Verification

Tools and systems for verifying carriers, brokers, and ensuring safety.

Carrier411 Service

Carrier411.com

Carrier verification service

▼

A paid platform for vetting carriers and brokers (an industry standard).

What Carrier411 shows:

MC/DOT number and authority status
Insurance information (current coverage)
Safety ratings and CSA scores
Inspection history
Out of service orders
FreightGuard reports (broker payment history)
Alerts when status changes

Cost: $50-150/month depending on the plan.

For dispatchers: ALWAYS check every new broker on Carrier411 before booking!

🔊 /ˈkær.i.ər/ 📊 Medium

"Check carrier on Carrier411 first" — "Check the carrier on Carrier411 first"

SAFER Service

FMCSA SAFER System

FMCSA safety verification system

▼

FMCSA's free database for checking carriers and brokers.

What SAFER shows:

MC/DOT number
Operating authority status (Active, Inactive)
Insurance on file (but not always up to date!)
Safety rating (Satisfactory, Conditional, Unsatisfactory)
Number of power units and drivers
Out of service orders

Access: safer.fmcsa.dot.gov (free)

Limitations: Information can be outdated. Carrier411 is more reliable for checking insurance.

🔊 /ˈseɪ.fər/ 📊 Medium

"Verify carrier on FMCSA SAFER" — "Verify the carrier on FMCSA SAFER"

RTS Pro (Rmis) Service

Rmis Transportation Services

Carrier verification service

▼

A real-time verification system for insurance and authority.

What RTS Pro does:

Instant verification of insurance certificates
Verification of coverage amounts
Checking expiration dates
Authority verification

Used by: Brokers to vet carriers before tendering a load.

For carriers: Make sure your insurance is registered in Rmis!

🔊 /ɑːr.tiː.ɛs/ 📉 Rare

"Carrier must be verified in RMIS" — "The carrier must be verified in RMIS"

CSA Score Rating

Compliance, Safety, Accountability Score

Carrier safety rating

▼

A carrier's safety rating from FMCSA.

The 7 BASIC categories (Behavior Analysis and Safety Improvement Categories):

Unsafe Driving: Speeding, reckless driving
HOS Compliance: Hours of Service violations
Driver Fitness: Driver qualifications, medical requirements
Controlled Substances/Alcohol: Drugs, alcohol
Vehicle Maintenance: Technical condition of trucks
Crash Indicator: Crash history
Hazmat Compliance: Compliance with hazardous materials transport rules

Scale: 0-100 (lower is better!)
Threshold: Above 65-80 = high inspection risk.

Check it: ai.fmcsa.dot.gov/SMS

🔊 /siː.ɛs.eɪ/ 📊 Medium

"What's their CSA score?" — "What's their CSA score?"

COI Document

Certificate of Insurance

Certificate of insurance

▼

A certificate of insurance confirming active coverage.

What a COI should include:

Carrier name and MC/DOT number
Insurance company name
Policy number
Coverage amounts:
• Auto Liability: $1,000,000 minimum (interstate)
• Cargo Insurance: $100,000 minimum
• General Liability: $1,000,000+
Effective dates (start and expiration)
Certificate holder (who it's issued to)

Important: Brokers require a COI before the first load. Make sure your COI is current!

🔊 /siː.oʊ.aɪ/ ⚡ Frequent

"Send COI before we can dispatch" — "Send the COI before we dispatch"

W-9 Form Document

IRS Form W-9

Tax form W-9

▼

A tax form with information about your company for the IRS.

What a W-9 contains:

Legal business name
Business structure (LLC, Corporation, Sole Proprietor)
EIN (Employer Identification Number) or SSN
Business address
Signature

When it's needed: Brokers require a W-9 before the first load for tax reporting (1099 forms).

Important: Keep a completed W-9 as a PDF and send it to new brokers right away!

🔊 /ˈdʌb.əl.juː naɪn/ 📊 Medium

"We need your W-9 on file" — "We need your W-9 on file"

Cargo Insurance Insurance

Cargo Insurance / Freight Insurance

Cargo insurance

▼

Insurance covering freight against damage, loss, or theft.

Typical coverage amounts:

$100,000 - minimum for most brokers
$250,000 - standard for high-value freight
$500,000+ - for electronics, pharmaceuticals

Cost: $3,000-8,000/year depending on coverage and claims history.

Important: Always inspect the cargo at loading and note any damage on the BOL!

🔊 /ˈkɑːr.ɡoʊ/ ⚡ Frequent

"What's your cargo insurance limit?" — "What's your cargo insurance limit?"

Liability Insurance Insurance

Auto Liability Insurance

Auto liability insurance

▼

Liability insurance for damage to third parties.

FMCSA minimum requirements:

$750,000 - for trucks carrying non-hazmat freight
$1,000,000 - industry standard (most brokers require this)
$5,000,000 - for hazmat freight

What it covers:

Damage to other vehicles
Personal injury
Property damage

Cost: $12,000-20,000/year per truck (depends on CSA score and claims history).

🔊 /ˌlaɪ.əˈbɪl.ɪ.ti/ ⚡ Frequent

"Minimum $1M auto liability required" — "A minimum of $1M auto liability is required"

🚨 Problems and Situations

Terms related to problem situations and how to resolve them.

Breakdown Problem

Truck Breakdown / Mechanical Failure

Truck breakdown en route

▼

A truck breakdown while en route.

Dispatcher actions during a breakdown:

Find out the driver's exact location
Determine how serious the breakdown is (can it be fixed quickly?)
Call roadside assistance or find the nearest service shop
IMMEDIATELY notify the broker of the delay
Provide a new ETA or offer an alternative (another truck)
If the breakdown is serious, arrange a tow and transfer of the load

Important: Communication with the broker is critical! The sooner you notify them, the better.

🔊 /ˈbreɪk.daʊn/ ⚡ Common

"Driver has a breakdown in Ohio" — "The driver has a breakdown in Ohio"

Cargo Claim Problem

Cargo Damage Claim

Claim for cargo damage

▼

A claim for damage to, or loss of, cargo.

Types of cargo claims:

Damage: Cargo damaged in transit
Shortage: Missing items (not all pallets delivered)
Theft: Cargo theft
Concealed damage: Hidden damage (discovered after delivery)

How to avoid claims:

ALWAYS inspect the cargo when loading
Note ALL damage on the BOL
Photograph the cargo at loading and unloading
Count pallets/pieces
Check the seal number

If a claim is filed: Cargo insurance covers it, but may raise your premium.

🔊 /ˈkɑːr.ɡoʊ kleɪm/ 📊 Moderate

"Shipper filed a cargo claim for damage" — "The shipper filed a claim for cargo damage"

Double Brokering FRAUD

Illegal Double Brokering

Illegal double brokering

▼

ILLEGALLY reselling a load to another broker or carrier without authorization.

How double brokering works (FRAUD!):

Carrier A books the load from the Broker
Carrier A does NOT haul the load itself
Carrier A resells the load to Carrier B for less
Carrier B hauls the load
Carrier A pockets the difference

Why this is ILLEGAL and DANGEROUS:

Breach of contract with the broker
No control over the cargo
Risk of cargo theft
Carrier B may not have insurance
Fines up to $10,000+ and loss of MC authority

NEVER engage in double brokering!

🔊 /ˈdʌb.əl/ 📊 Moderate

"Watch out for double brokering" — "Watch out for double brokering"

Fraud FRAUD

Freight Fraud / Cargo Theft

Fraud / Cargo theft

▼

Fraud in the trucking industry.

Types of fraud:

Fake broker: A phony broker with a fake MC number
Identity theft: Scammers use someone else's MC/DOT number
Fictitious pickup: A nonexistent load used to steal information
Cargo theft: Cargo stolen after loading
Strategic cargo theft: Scammers pose as a carrier, take the load, and disappear

How to protect yourself:

ALWAYS verify the MC/DOT through Carrier411 or SAFER
Call the broker at the number listed on their official website (not from the email!)
Check email domains (brokers shouldn't use Gmail/Yahoo)
Require a rate confirmation on official letterhead
Be wary of rates that seem "too good"

🔊 /frɔːd/ 📉 Rare

"Report freight fraud to FMCSA immediately" — "Report the fraud to FMCSA immediately"

Load Cancellation Situation

Load Cancellation / Cancelled Load

Load cancellation

▼

Cancellation of a load by the broker or shipper.

When a load may be cancelled:

The shipper cancelled the order
The freight isn't ready
The customer's plans changed
The broker found a cheaper truck

Your rights:

If cancelled BEFORE arrival at the location: usually no compensation
If the driver is already en route: TONU $50-200
If the driver is on site: TONU $100-400
If loading has already begun: 50-100% of the rate

Important: TONU must be specified in the rate confirmation!

🔊 /ˌkæn.sɪˈleɪ.ʃən/ 📊 Moderate

"Load cancelled, TONU applies" — "Load cancelled, TONU applies"

Reschedule Situation

Rescheduled Appointment

Rescheduling of pickup/delivery time

▼

Rescheduling a pickup or delivery.

Reasons for a reschedule:

The freight isn't ready
The warehouse is overloaded
The driver is running late
Weather conditions

Dispatcher actions:

Get a new appointment time
Confirm with the driver
Notify the broker
Recalculate the delivery ETA
If the delay is significant, request layover pay

🔊 /ˌriːˈʃɛd.juːl/ 📊 Moderate

"Pickup rescheduled to 2 PM" — "Pickup rescheduled to 2 PM"

No-show Problem

Driver No-show

Driver failed to show up

▼

The driver did not show up for the load at the scheduled time.

Consequences of a no-show:

Loss of reputation with the broker
Possible fine of $200-500
Being blacklisted by the broker
Loss of future loads

How to avoid it:

Confirm the appointment 24 hours ahead
Do a check call with the driver 2-3 hours before pickup
Track GPS location
If there's a problem, notify the broker IMMEDIATELY!

🔊 /noʊ ʃoʊ/ 📊 Moderate

"Driver is a no-show, find backup" — "The driver is a no-show, find a replacement"

Rejected Load Situation

Load Rejection

Refusing a load

▼

Refusal of a load by the driver or carrier.

Legitimate reasons for rejection:

The cargo doesn't match the description in the RC
The weight exceeds what was stated (overweight)
The cargo was damaged during loading
Unsafe conditions (unsafe loading)
Additional services are required that aren't in the RC

Actions to take:

Photograph the issue
Call the broker IMMEDIATELY
Explain the reason for the rejection
Get written confirmation
Request TONU if applicable

🔊 /rɪˈdʒɛk.tɪd/ 📊 Moderate

"Driver rejected load due to damage" — "The driver rejected the load due to damage"

📞 Communication and Processes

Terms related to communication between dispatcher, drivers, and brokers.

Check Call Process

Driver Check Call

Check-in call to the driver

▼

A call from the dispatcher to the driver to check status and location.

When to make check calls:

In the morning (6:00-8:00 AM) — checking readiness for the day
2-3 hours before pickup — confirming ETA
After pickup — confirming the load
Midway through the trip — checking progress
2-3 hours before delivery — confirming ETA
After delivery — confirming unloading and POD

What to ask:

"What's your current location?"
"What's your ETA to pickup/delivery?"
"Any issues or delays?"
"How many hours do you have left?" (HOS)

🔊 /tʃɛk kɔːl/ ⚡ Common

"Do a check call every 4 hours" — "Do a check call every 4 hours"

Rate Negotiation Process

Freight Rate Negotiation

Rate negotiation

▼

Negotiating a rate with the broker to get a better price.

Negotiation techniques:

Know your numbers: Calculate your minimum profitable rate BEFORE the call
Start higher: If the load pays $2.50/mile, ask for $2.80-3.00
Justify your ask: "My truck is already in the area", "I can pick up today"
Be flexible: If they won't raise the rate, ask for detention/layover terms
Know when to walk away: If the rate isn't profitable, decline it

Phrases to use in negotiation:

"What's the best you can do on this load?"
"Can you add $0.20/mile? My truck is already nearby"
"I can do $X if you add detention at $50/hour"
"Let me check with my driver and call you back" (buys time to think)

🔊 /ˌnɪ.ɡoʊ.ʃiˈeɪ.ʃən/ ⚡ Common

"Let me negotiate a better rate" — "Let me negotiate a better rate"

Load Tender Process

Load Tender / Freight Tender

Load offer

▼

An offer of a load from a broker to a carrier.

The load tender process:

The broker finds your truck on a load board or in their database
They call or email the load details
You review the details (pickup/delivery, rate, commodity)
You accept or decline
If you accept, the broker sends a rate confirmation

What to check on a tender:

Rate per mile (including deadhead)
Pickup and delivery times (is it realistically achievable?)
Equipment type (does it match your truck?)
Commodity (what are you hauling?)
Weight (not overweight?)

🔊 /ˈtɛn.dər/ 📊 Moderate

"We received a load tender from the shipper" — "We received a load tender from the shipper"

Confirmation Number Identifier

Load Confirmation Number

Load confirmation number

▼

The load confirmation number from the broker.

Where it's used:

On the rate confirmation (usually at the top of the document)
When checking in at the warehouse
In communication with the broker
On the BOL and POD
On the invoice

Format: Usually letters + numbers (e.g., CHR123456, TQL-789012)

Important: Always write down the confirmation number and use it whenever communicating with the broker!

🔊 /ˌkɒn.fɜːˈmeɪ.ʃən/ ⚡ Common

"What's the load confirmation number?" — "What's the load confirmation number?"

Reference Number Identifier

Load Reference Number / PO Number

Reference / Order number

▼

A number used to track the load in the shipper's or receiver's system.

Types of reference numbers:

PO Number: Purchase Order number from the shipper
PRO Number: Progressive Rotating Order number
BOL Number: Bill of Lading number
Delivery Number: Delivery number from the receiver

Where it's used:

When checking in at the warehouse (always provide it!)
On the BOL
In communication with the shipper/receiver

Important: Without the correct reference number, you may not be accepted at the warehouse!

🔊 /ˈrɛf.ər.əns/ ⚡ Common

"Use PO number as reference" — "Use the PO number as the reference"

📖 Glossary of Terms and Abbreviations

▪ SECTIONS▼

▪ MODULES▼

▪ TOOLS▼

💡 About the glossary:

📚 Glossary Contents

🚛 Work Terms and Statuses

📄 Documentation

⚖️ Regulations & Systems

🚚 Cargo Types & Equipment

💼 Additional Important Terms

💰 Financial Terms

🚚 Types of Operations and Specialized Loads

🗺️ Routes and Planning

🏭 Warehouses and Operations

🛡️ Safety and Verification

🚨 Problems and Situations

📞 Communication and Processes

📄 Additional Documents and Terms

🎯 How to use the glossary effectively:

⚠️ Common mistakes beginners make: