If you’re a new carrier that just received your trucking authority, finding quality freight fast is crucial for jump-starting your business. But you’re probably asking yourself these questions:
Choosing the right load board makes a difference for your new business. It gets you on the road to making money. We will walk you through the best load boards for new authorities, explain what to look for, and show you why NextLOAD is the smart, beginner-friendly choice for your trucking business.
What Is a Load Board and Why Do New Authorities Need One?
A load board is an online marketplace where carriers and owner-operators find loads posted by brokers and shippers. If you’ve just received your new authority, a load board is your #1 tool for getting on the road and earning fast.
The right load board helps you:
- Find loads quickly and easily
- Avoid empty (deadhead) miles
- Verify brokers and stay safe
- Build a reputation and grow your business
Top Load Board for New Authority Carriers
Here’s a quick look at the top load boards for new authorities in 2025:
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- DAT – known for load volume and analytics, starting at $49 per month
- Truckstop – features robust vetting, compliance, and negotiation tools primarily used by established carriers, starting at $42 per month
- NextLOAD – low-cost, user-friendly features that are best for new authorities, featuring real-time and TMS-verified loads.
Pro tip: Many new carriers use a mix of load boards to maximize hauling opportunities.
What Should I Look for in a Load Board for a New Authority?
Starting out? Look for these beginner-friendly features:
- Free or low-cost: Avoid big upfront fees while you build your business.
- Simple sign-up: Get verified and start booking loads quickly.
- Broker Verification: Protect yourself from scams with built-in broker checks.
These features help you get rolling faster and protect your business from common startup challenges.
How Do I Book Loads with a New Authority?
It’s easier than you think! Just follow these steps:
- Sign up with a load board
- Complete your carrier profile and upload your authority documents
- Search for loads by location, equipment type, or lane
- Verify brokers and check payment history
- Book the load or send an offer
Pro tip: Start with shorter hauls and trusted brokers to build experience and get paid faster.
Why Is NextLOAD the Best Load Board for New Authorities?
NextLOAD checks all the boxes for new trucking businesses:
- Fast, easy sign-up – Get started in minutes
- Live, real-time loads – Thousands posted daily
- Trusted broker network – Reduce risk and find better freight
- Beginner-friendly support – Help when you need it most
Whether you’re running a dry van, reefer, flatbed, or box truck, NextLOAD is built for your success.
Ready to Get Hauling?
If you’re ready to start booking quality freight and growing your business, NextLOAD is the best load board for new authorities in 2025. Sign up for NextLOAD today and start moving freight with confidence.