New Authority Checklist (READ FIRST)
If you’re a new authority and don’t have these things in place, you’re already behind. Before asking about loads, rates, or dispatching, make sure you have MOST of this done ⬇️ ✅ BUSINESS & COMPLIANCE Active MC & DOT number Authority active (not pending) BOC-3 filed Insurance on file (liability + cargo) No serious FMCSA red flags ✅ LOAD BOARDS (CRITICAL) At least ONE load board account: DAT Truckstop 123Loadboard Understand: Lane pricing Deadhead vs profit Why “cheap freight” exists If you don’t understand the boards, you’re gambling — not running a business. ✅ PAPERWORK YOU MUST KNOW Rate confirmations BOLs Invoices Detention & layover requests Broker packets If paperwork confuses you, dispatching will confuse you. ✅ EQUIPMENT & EXPECTATIONS Know your true cost per mile Know what lanes your equipment fits Be realistic about: Your first 30–90 days Rejection Slow weeks ⚠️ REAL TALK Dispatching does NOT: Magically fix bad business decisions Eliminate downtime Guarantee high-paying loads every day Dispatching IS: Strategy Communication Timing Relationships 👉 NEXT STEP Comment below with: Equipment type Home base Authority status (active/pending) If you want 1-on-1 help, mentorship, or dispatching services, that will be shared soon. Build it right or pay for mistakes later. 🚛💯