Dispatch Fee Calculator
Calculate how much you pay your dispatcher monthly and annually, and see the per-load cost of dispatch services.
Results
Visualization
How It Works
Dispatch services handle finding and booking loads on your behalf, typically charging 5-15% of gross revenue. While dispatchers save you time and can negotiate better rates, the cost adds up significantly over a year. This calculator helps you see the true cost and decide whether dispatch services are worth it for your operation.
The Formula
Worked Example
At $15,000 monthly gross revenue and a 10% dispatch rate, you pay $1,500/month or $18,000/year. With 8 loads per month, each load costs $187.50 in dispatch fees. Your effective revenue drops to $13,500/month.
Practical Tips
- Negotiate the dispatch rate based on your volume. Higher revenue operators should pay closer to 5-7%, not the standard 10%.
- Verify your dispatcher is finding loads at market rate or better. A bad dispatcher costs you more than the fee in missed revenue.
- Try self-dispatching for a month using load boards to see if you can match your dispatcher's performance. Many experienced drivers self-dispatch successfully.
- Ensure your dispatch contract allows termination without excessive penalties. Avoid long-term lock-in agreements.
- Ask dispatchers for transparency on the rate sheet. You should know the full broker rate, not just what the dispatcher passes to you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a fair dispatch rate?
For standard dry van or reefer, 5-10% is typical. Specialized freight dispatchers may charge 8-12%. Rates above 12% are generally too high unless the dispatcher provides exceptional service and consistently books premium loads.
Should I use a dispatcher or self-dispatch?
New owner-operators often benefit from dispatchers who know the industry and can find good loads. Once you build broker relationships and learn your lanes, self-dispatching saves 5-15% of revenue. Many successful operators switch to self-dispatch after 1-2 years.
What should a good dispatcher provide?
A good dispatcher should find consistent loads at competitive rates, minimize deadhead, handle rate negotiations, provide back-haul options, and respect your home time preferences. They should be transparent about broker rates and responsive to your needs.
Can I negotiate dispatch rates?
Yes. Dispatchers are competing for your business. If you run consistent volume ($15,000+/month), you have leverage to negotiate down to 5-7%. Bring quotes from competing dispatch services as leverage.
What is the difference between a dispatcher and a broker?
A broker connects shippers with carriers and takes a cut of the freight rate (typically 15-25%). A dispatcher works for you (the carrier) to find and negotiate loads, charging you 5-15% of your gross. They serve different roles in the freight chain.