QUESTIONS TO ASK CARRIERS BEFORE DISPATCHING THEIR TRUCK! 2025

Summary

In this video, the host offers insightful guidance for new dispatchers working with owner-operators. The key focus is on essential questions dispatchers should ask to effectively manage and support their carriers. Topics covered include understanding the financial needs of the owner-operator, knowing preferred lanes, types of equipment, and endorsements, as well as the importance of clear communication and setting expectations. The video emphasizes the importance of confidence, knowledge, and control in dispatcher-owner-operator interactions, ensuring that dispatchers are well-prepared to secure the best loads and foster successful partnerships.

Takeaways

• 😀 Understand that as a dispatcher, you're working as a personal assistant for the owner-operator, making their life easier.
• 😀 Before dispatching, gather all the necessary information about the owner-operator's needs and preferences to ensure effective service.
• 😀 The first question to ask the owner-operator is how much they need to make per month to keep their truck rolling, considering insurance and gas costs.
• 😀 Average monthly expenses for an owner-operator can include insurance (around $3,000) and gas (approximately $2,000), totaling $5,000 per month as a minimum baseline.
• 😀 Ask the owner-operator about preferred lanes or routes they're familiar with to help streamline the dispatching process and avoid unnecessary complications.
• 😀 It's essential to know what kind of equipment the owner-operator has, as filtering load boards by equipment type can help narrow down available loads.
• 😀 Understand whether the owner-operator is willing to go over the road, as some prefer local routes. This information can save time and reduce wasted efforts in dispatching.
• 😀 The fewer limitations the owner-operator has, the easier it is to book loads and increase the chances of more frequent bookings.
• 😀 Encourage owner-operators to consider getting additional endorsements (e.g., tanker, hazmat) to increase their load opportunities and earning potential.
• 😀 Ask the owner-operator when they are ready to start dispatching, as some may be ready immediately while others may need time to prepare.
• 😀 Asking these key questions upfront ensures you have all the information necessary to successfully dispatch for the owner-operator, saving time and avoiding unnecessary back-and-forth.

Q & A

What is the first thing I should ask an owner-operator before dispatching for them?

The first question you should ask is what they need to make per month to keep their truck rolling. This helps you understand their financial needs and ensures they can stay on the road.

How can I help an owner-operator stay realistic about their monthly costs?

You can help by breaking down essential expenses such as insurance and gas. For example, if insurance costs $3,000 a month and gas is $500 a week, you can estimate their monthly expenses to be around $5,000 to keep their truck running.

Why is it important to ask about preferred lanes or routes?

Asking about preferred lanes helps you understand the routes the owner-operator is familiar with, making it easier to book loads they are comfortable with, saving time and reducing stress.

How does knowing the type of equipment the owner-operator has help me?

Knowing the equipment helps you filter the load boards effectively, narrowing down the options to find the best match for their vehicle, speeding up the dispatching process.

What should I ask to know if an owner-operator is willing to go over the road?

You should ask directly whether they are open to going over the road. This will help you avoid wasting time on loads that aren't suitable for them, especially if they prefer local routes.

How can I make it easier to book loads for owner-operators?

The fewer limitations an owner-operator has, the easier it is to book loads for them. Encouraging flexibility helps you find more opportunities, as you'll have a wider range of options to consider.

What are endorsements, and why should I ask if the owner-operator has any?

Endorsements are additional certifications like tanker or hazmat that allow the owner-operator to haul specialized loads. Asking if they have any can help open up more opportunities for you to book additional loads.

How can knowing the owner-operator’s preferred start date help in dispatching?

Knowing when the owner-operator wants to start helps you plan better, ensuring you're ready to book loads according to their availability, avoiding miscommunication or wasted time.

How does understanding the owner-operator’s business model impact my role as a dispatcher?

Understanding their business model, especially their financial goals, allows you to act more effectively as their personal assistant, ensuring you meet their needs and help keep their truck rolling efficiently.

What is the best way to build confidence in conversations with owner-operators?

The key is to remain in control of the conversation. By asking the right questions and demonstrating your knowledge, you’ll show the owner-operator that you are capable and trustworthy, building confidence and rapport.