Freight Broker vs Dispatcher: What's the Difference?

The Key Difference

Brokers connect shippers with carriers and take 15-25% of the rate. Dispatchers work for the carrier, finding loads and managing operations for 5-10% or a flat fee.

What Brokers Do

Find shippers, match loads to carriers, negotiate both sides, handle billing. Requires MC authority and $75,000 bond.

What Dispatchers Do

Find loads for their carriers, negotiate best rates, manage schedules and compliance. No broker license needed.

Which Do You Need?

Carriers need dispatchers (or dispatch software like DispatchTool). Shippers work with brokers.