Your authority is active. Your insurance is filed. Your truck is ready.

Now you need to find freight.

For brand-new owner operators, this moment is both exciting and terrifying. Where do you even start? Who do you call? What do you say?

The good news: Finding your first load is easier than you think.

The better news: After you find the first one, you'll know exactly how to find the next hundred.

Let me walk you through the exact process, step-by-step.

Before you start: make sure you're actually ready

DO NOT search for loads until you have:

MC authority showing "Active" in FMCSA

Check at https://safer.fmcsa.DOT.gov/

Insurance filed and posted

Shows in FMCSA database
BMC-91 or BMC-34 on file

20-day protest period passed

Count from your MC application date

All registrations complete

UCR paid
IRP plates on truck
IFTA decals on truck
DOT/MC numbers displayed

ELD functioning properly

Tested and working
You know how to use it

Basic business setup complete

Business bank account open
Accounting system ready (even just a spreadsheet)
Email and phone for business use

If you're missing ANY of these: Stop. Don't search for loads yet. Operating without proper authority is illegal and can cost you $25,000+ in fines.

Verify your authority is active: Call FMCSA at 1-800-832-5660 or check SAFER system online.

Step 1: choose your load board

You need at least one load board subscription to start.

Option a: start budget (123loadboard)

Cost: $39-$79/month
Best for: First 1-3 months while cash flow is tight
Plenty of loads to get started

Option b: start pro (DAT or truckstop)

Cost: ~$110-$149/month (Pro tiers)
Best for: If you have budget, jump straight to the best
More loads and better broker data

My recommendation for your FIRST load: Use 123Loadboard 7-day free trial or DAT 5-day free trial. Book your first load for free, then decide which to subscribe to based on the experience.

See our complete load board comparison →

Step 2: set up your load board profile

Before searching, complete your carrier profile:

Required information:

Company name
MC number
DOT number
Contact phone and email
Equipment type and quantity
Service areas
Insurance amounts

Pro tip: Add a professional company description:

Example:

"Smith Trucking LLC - Professional owner operator with new equipment (2021 Freightliner), $1M liability coverage, real-time tracking, excellent communication. Specializing in Midwest/Southeast lanes. Available for dry van freight 48 states."

Why this matters: Some brokers browse carriers on load boards. A complete profile makes you look professional and established.

Step 3: define your first load criteria

For your FIRST load, prioritize learning over maximizing income.

Choose loads with these characteristics:

Reasonable distance: 400-800 miles

Short enough to complete in 1-2 days
Long enough to be worthwhile
Not so long you're stressed

Good delivery window: 48+ hours

Gives you buffer for learning
Less pressure
Can handle minor delays

Standard pickup/delivery: No appointments from hell

Avoid: Grocery warehouses (detention nightmares)
Avoid: Mega distribution centers (complex procedures)
Prefer: Manufacturer docks, standard warehouse

Reputable broker: 90+ credit score

Check DAT or Truckstop broker ratings
Look for "Days to Pay: 30 or less"
Avoid brokers with complaint histories

Fair rate: $2.25-2.75/mile minimum

Don't take lowball offers because you're desperate
Your first load sets expectations for your worth

Minimal deadhead: Under 50 miles to pickup

Calculate all-in rate including deadhead
Example: $1,500 for 600 miles with 100-mile deadhead = $2.14/mile all-in (not great)

Step 4: search for loads

Now the actual searching.

How to use load board filters:

1. Set Your Origin:

Your current location
Set radius: 50-100 miles

2. Set Equipment Type:

Dry van, reefer, flatbed (whatever you have)

3. Set Pickup Dates:

Today + 1 day (gives you time to prepare)
Through: Today + 3 days

4. Set Destination (Optional but Smart):

For first load, pick a destination you know
Familiar area = less stress
Example: If you're based in Chicago, search for loads going to areas you've driven before

5. Set Minimum Rate:

$2.25/mile minimum
This filters out junk loads immediately

6. Sort by:

"Newest First" (fresh posts, less competition)
OR "Rate Highest" (see best paying options)

Step 5: evaluate load options

You'll see a list of loads. Now what?

For each interesting load, check:

1. The Math:

Posted rate: $1,800
Posted miles: 700
Rate per mile: $2.57 

Deadhead to pickup: 60 miles
Total miles: 760
All-in rate: $1,800 ÷ 760 = $2.37/mile Still good

2. The Broker:

Click on broker name
Check credit score: 90+ is good, 80-90 is okay, under 80 be cautious
Check days to pay: 30 or less is best
Read reviews: Any complaints about non-payment? Run away.

3. The Timeline:

Pickup: Tomorrow at 10am
Delivery: Day after tomorrow by 5pm

Can you make it?
- 700 miles in 31 hours = plenty of time 
- Factor in loading time (2-4 hours)
- Factor in unloading time (2-4 hours)
- Still comfortable?

4. The Route:

Familiar with the route?
Are there truck stops along the way?
Any known trouble spots (mountains, construction, bad weather expected)?

If all checks pass: This is a candidate load. Write down the load ID.

Make a list of 3-5 candidate loads before you start calling.

Step 6: make your first broker call

This is where new owner operators freeze up.

Don't overthink it. Here's exactly what to say:

The script (use this word-for-word if you're nervous):

You: "Hi, my name is [Your Name] with [Your Company]. I'm calling about Load ID [12345] posted on [DAT/Truckstop]. Is it still available?"

Broker: "Yes, it's available. What equipment do you have?"

You: "I have a [2020 dry van, 53-foot]. I have my own authority, $1M liability, and cargo coverage. I can pick up [tomorrow at 10am] and deliver [day after by 5pm]."

Broker: "The load pays $1,800."

You: "I saw that. Can you do $2,000? I'm a reliable owner operator with new equipment and real-time tracking. I'll take good care of this load."

Broker: "Best I can do is $1,850."

You: "Can you meet me at $1,900?"

Broker: "Okay, $1,900. Deal."

You: "Perfect. Can you send me the rate confirmation via email at [your email]?"

Broker: "Yes, give me 10 minutes. I'll email it with all pickup and delivery details."

You: "Great, I'll sign and send it right back. Thank you!"

That's it. You just booked your first load.

What just happened:

You confirmed availability
You established credibility
You negotiated $100 more than asking
You're getting a rate confirmation in writing

Total time: 3-5 minutes

Step 7: review and sign rate confirmation

Broker will email you a "Rate Confirmation" document.

What to check before signing:

1. Load Details Match:

Origin address and pickup date/time
Destination address and delivery date/time
Equipment type
Weight

2. Rate is Correct:

Shows $1,900 (or whatever you agreed to)
No hidden deductions
Payment terms (typically "Net 30 days")

3. Your Information is Correct:

Your company name
MC number
Contact info

4. Special Instructions:

Any pickup numbers or reference codes
Any delivery requirements
Appointment times

Red flags: Rate is lower than what you agreed to (call immediately) "Broker reserves right to adjust rate" language (don't sign) Payment terms over 45 days (negotiate or walk away) Unclear pickup/delivery addresses

If everything looks good: Sign it and email back.

If something's wrong: Call the broker and get it fixed before signing.

Step 8: prepare for pickup

You've booked the load. Now get ready.

Day before pickup checklist:

Route planning:

Map your route
Identify truck stops
Check for road construction or closures
Note fuel stops (plan for best fuel prices)

Pre-trip inspection:

Do a thorough inspection
Fix any issues NOW (not after you're loaded)
Check tire pressure, fluids, lights, brakes

Documentation ready:

Rate confirmation printed or on phone
BOL (shipper provides this at pickup)
Pen for signing paperwork

ELD ready:

Set up load in ELD system
Ensure hours of service are good
Plan your drive time

Communication plan:

Save broker's phone number
Save shipper's phone number
Know when to provide updates

Confirm pickup appointment:

Call shipper the day before
"Hi, this is [Your Name], confirming my pickup tomorrow at 10am for [Broker Name]."
Ask if there are any special requirements

Step 9: execute the load (your first run)

At pickup:

1. Arrive on time (or early)

15-30 minutes early is professional
Never arrive late to your first load

2. Check in at shipping office:

"Hi, I'm here to pick up for [Broker Name], appointment at 10am."
Provide rate confirmation if needed
They'll give you a dock number

3. Watch the loading:

Observe how they're loading
Count the pallets/pieces
Take photos if high-value or could be damaged

4. Get the BOL (Bill of Lading):

This is your proof you picked up the freight
Count the pieces matches what's on the BOL
Sign the BOL
Get a signed copy for yourself (critical!)

5. Close and seal trailer:

Ensure door is properly closed and sealed
Note seal number on your paperwork

6. Secure the load:

Use load bars, straps, whatever's needed
Make sure freight won't shift

7. Update broker:

Text or email: "Picked up at [time], on way to delivery."

During transit:

1. Drive safely (Priority #1)

Don't rush
You have time
First load without incident > first load delivered fast

2. Provide updates:

Most brokers appreciate a midpoint update
"Halfway there, on schedule for on-time delivery"

3. Log your time properly:

Keep ELD updated
Take required breaks
Don't violate HOS (hours of service)

4. Track your expenses:

Fuel receipts
Tolls
Food
Whatever you spend for tax deduction

At delivery:

1. Arrive on time:

Call ahead if you'll be early or late
Most receivers prefer appointments honored

2. Check in:

"Hi, I'm here to deliver for [Broker Name]."
Provide BOL
They'll assign you a dock

3. Watch the unloading:

Count pieces coming off
Note any damage
Take photos if there are issues

4. Get BOL signed:

This is your proof of delivery (POD)
Make sure it's signed by receiver
Take a photo of the signed BOL with your phone
You need this to get paid

5. Note any issues:

Damaged freight? Note on BOL before they sign
Shortages? Note on BOL
Get receiver's signature acknowledging any issues

6. Update broker:

"Delivered at [time], all pieces accounted for. POD attached."
Email or upload signed POD immediately

Step 10: get paid

Load is delivered. Now you want your money.

Payment process:

1. Submit POD within 24 hours:

Email signed BOL/POD to broker
Most brokers have online portal - upload there too
Keep a copy for your records

2. Broker processes payment:

Typical timeline: 30 days from delivery
Some brokers pay faster (15-21 days)
Quick pay available from some brokers (2-5% fee)

3. Track the payment:

Note in your spreadsheet: "Payment due [date]"
If payment is late (35+ days), follow up politely
"Hi [Broker], following up on Load [ID] delivered [date]. Payment was due [date]. Can you confirm status?"

4. Receive payment:

Direct deposit or check
Verify amount matches rate confirmation
Update your records

Your first load debrief

After your first load is complete, evaluate:

What went well:

Was pickup smooth?
Was driving stress-free?
Was delivery professional?
Did you make money?

What could be better:

Did you leave money on the table (could have negotiated higher)?
Was deadhead too high?
Did you waste time?
Were there unexpected issues?

Calculate your actual numbers:

Gross revenue: $1,900
- Fuel cost: $______
- Tolls: $______
- Other: $______
= Net revenue: $______

Total miles (loaded + deadhead): ______
Net per mile: $______ ÷ ______ miles = $______/mile

Was it profitable? ______
Would you run this lane again? ______

This analysis makes you better on load #2.

What if nobody answers your calls?

Reality check: You might call 10 brokers and get:

3 voicemails
4 "load already taken"
2 "can't meet your rate"
1 booking

This is normal. Especially for new authority (brokers prefer established carriers).

If you're struggling to book:

1. Lower your rate slightly:

Not to lowball levels ($1.50/mile)
But if market is $2.50 and you're asking $2.80, come down to $2.60

2. Call MORE loads:

10 calls = Maybe 1 booking
20 calls = Better odds
This is a numbers game

3. Highlight your advantages:

"New equipment"
"Real-time tracking"
"Available immediately"
"Flexible on delivery time"

4. Try different load boards:

What's not on DAT might be on Truckstop
Cross-reference

5. Expand your search radius:

100 miles instead of 50 miles
Accept a bit more deadhead for your first load

Don't take a terrible load just because you're desperate. It's better to wait 24 hours for a good load than take a $1.50/mile disaster today.

Common first load mistakes

Mistake #1: Accepting first offer

Fix: Always negotiate. Even $50-100 adds up.

Mistake #2: Not checking broker credit

Fix: Spend 30 seconds checking before you call.

Mistake #3: Forgetting deadhead in calculations

Fix: Always calculate all-in rate per mile.

Mistake #4: No POD documentation

Fix: Take photos of signed BOL. Can't get paid without proof.

Mistake #5: Picking up without inspecting load

Fix: Count pieces, check for damage before signing BOL.

After your first load: what's next?

Congratulations! You just completed your first load as an owner operator.

Now you need to find the next one.

The process is EXACTLY THE SAME:

Search load boards from your delivery location
Find 3-5 candidate loads
Call brokers
Negotiate
Book
Execute
Get paid

The difference: You'll be faster, more confident, and better at negotiating.

How FF Dispatch eliminates first load anxiety

The problem with finding your first load:

Overwhelming (where to even start?)
Intimidating (negotiating with experienced brokers)
Time-consuming (10+ calls to book one load)
Uncertain (did I get a good rate or get taken advantage of?)

What if someone who does this every day did it for you?

How we help:

We find loads for you

No more staring at load boards overwhelmed
We present 2-3 vetted options
You just pick which one you want

We negotiate for you

Our dispatchers have years of experience
We get 15-20% better rates than new O/Os get themselves
You avoid leaving money on the table

We guide you through the process

Answer your questions
Provide support during pickup/delivery
Help with any issues that arise

Transparent pricing (7%)

You see every rate confirmation
No hidden markups
Fair pricing from day one

Real new O/O experience:

"I was terrified to call my first broker. Didn't know what to say, worried I'd sound like an amateur. FF Dispatch booked my first 5 loads while I got comfortable. They taught me what to say and how to negotiate. After a month I felt confident enough to do some myself, but still use them because they get better rates than I do."

Get Help With Your First Loads →

See How Much You Could Make →

The bottom line

Finding your first load as an owner operator is simple:

Make sure authority is active
Subscribe to a load board
Search with smart filters
Call brokers with confidence
Negotiate for better rates
Execute professionally
Get paid

Your first load won't be perfect. You'll probably make small mistakes. That's okay.

The goal of your first load: Complete it successfully and learn. Income optimization comes later.

After 10 loads: You'll feel like a pro.

After 50 loads: You'll have a system.

After 100 loads: You'll wonder why you were ever nervous.

Everyone starts with load #1. You've got this.

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