Top 5 Load Boards for Semi Trucks: Best Picks

Ever feel like you’re always searching for the next big haul? For semi-truck drivers, finding good loads can be a constant challenge. It’s like looking for a needle in a haystack sometimes, and you want to spend more time driving and less time worrying about where your next paycheck is coming from.

Choosing the right load board can feel overwhelming. There are so many choices, and they all promise to connect you with freight. But how do you know which one will actually deliver? You need a tool that helps you find reliable loads quickly and easily, without wasting your valuable time. You want to avoid the frustration of dead ends and unreliable postings.

This guide is here to help. We’ll break down what makes a load board great and how to pick the one that best fits your needs. By the end, you’ll have a clearer picture of which platforms can help you keep your wheels turning and your business growing. Let’s dive in and find the best load board for your trucking journey.

Our Top 5 Load Boards For Semi Trucks Recommendations at a Glance

Top 5 Load Boards For Semi Trucks Detailed Reviews

1. Teltek USA Onboard Truck Scales Gauge for Any Semi

Teltek USA Onboard Truck Scales Gauge for Any Semi, Pickup Truck or Car - Bezel: Chrome - LED Color: Blue

Rating: 9.5/10

Ever wondered how much weight your truck is carrying? The Teltek USA Onboard Truck Scales Gauge is here to give you the answer. This gauge works for any vehicle, from big semi-trucks to smaller pickup trucks and cars. It has a shiny chrome bezel and a cool blue LED display, making it look good in any dash. You can easily see how much weight you’re hauling, up to a massive 100,000 pounds. This is super helpful for keeping your vehicle safe and legal on the road.

What We Like:

  • It can measure up to 100,000 lbs. This is a lot of weight!
  • The accuracy is great. It’s within ±100 lbs when calibrated at 34,000 lbs.
  • It fits standard 2 1/16″ dash holes. Most vehicles have this size opening.
  • If you don’t have a spot, you can still install it using a bracket, display, or pillar.
  • It comes with a lifetime warranty, which is awesome, as long as you don’t break it on purpose.
  • The display has a 1-second delay. This stops the numbers from jumping around wildly while you drive.
  • The blue LED light is easy to read, even in bright sunlight or at night.

What Could Be Improved:

  • The calibration process requires a specific weight (34,000 lbs) to achieve the best accuracy. This might be tricky for smaller vehicles.
  • While it fits standard holes, finding a suitable mounting spot in some smaller cars might require extra thought or accessories.

This Teltek USA gauge offers peace of mind and practical information for any driver. Knowing your exact load helps you drive smarter and safer.

2. DC Cargo Mall Heavy-Duty Adjustable Load Lock Bars for Trailers – Pack of 4 – Truck Cargo Bars – Load Bars for Enclosed Vans and Reefers – 89-104 Inches Long Steel Ratcheting Cargo Bar

DC Cargo Mall Heavy-Duty Adjustable Load Lock Bars for Trailers - Pack of 4 - Truck Cargo Bars - Load Bars for Enclosed Vans and Reefers - 89-104 Inches Long Steel Ratcheting Cargo Bar

Rating: 9.3/10

Secure your cargo with confidence using the DC Cargo Mall Heavy-Duty Adjustable Load Lock Bars. This pack of four steel ratcheting bars is built tough to keep your items stable in trailers, enclosed vans, and reefers. They easily adjust to fit spaces between 89 and 104 inches, preventing shifts and damage during transport. These bars are a smart solution for anyone hauling goods.

What We Like:

  • The bars are made of strong steel, making them very durable.
  • You get four bars in a pack, which is a great value.
  • They adjust easily, so they fit many different spaces.
  • The ratcheting mechanism makes them simple to tighten and secure.
  • This refurbished product is tested and certified to look and work like new.

What Could Be Improved:

  • Since this is a refurbished item, the original packaging might be different.
  • Availability of refurbished items can be limited at times.

These load lock bars offer a reliable and cost-effective way to protect your cargo. You can trust them to keep your belongings safe on the road.

3. Mytee Products 4 Pack Heavy Duty Adjustable Load Lock Bar for Semi Trailers

Mytee Products 4 Pack Heavy Duty Adjustable Load Lock Bar for Semi Trailers, Truck Box - 89.75"-104.5" Long Steel Ratcheting Cargo Bar Tie-Down Holder for Enclosed Truck & Vans with 2" - 4" Pads

Rating: 9.2/10

Securing your cargo in a semi-trailer or truck box is crucial. The Mytee Products 4 Pack Heavy Duty Adjustable Load Lock Bar is designed to do just that. This set comes with four strong bars, perfect for keeping your goods from shifting during transit. They fit a wide range of truck and van spaces, from 89.75 inches all the way up to 104.5 inches. The wide pads on each end grip firmly, preventing damage to your trailer walls or your cargo. Made from tough galvanized steel, these bars are built to last through many deliveries.

What We Like:

  • The pack includes four bars, giving you plenty to secure multiple loads or different sections of your trailer.
  • They extend to fit a good range of trailer widths, making them versatile.
  • The 2″ to 4″ pads on the ends provide a stable and secure grip without scratching surfaces.
  • The galvanized steel construction means they are strong and won’t rust easily, even in tough weather.
  • The ratcheting mechanism makes them easy to tighten and adjust quickly.

What Could Be Improved:

  • While sturdy, the bars are not lightweight, so carrying four of them can be a bit heavy.
  • The maximum extension might not be enough for the widest of semi-trailers.

These load lock bars are a solid investment for anyone who hauls goods regularly. They offer reliable cargo security and are built to withstand the demands of commercial use.

4. Mytee Products 2 Pack Heavy Duty Adjustable Load Lock Bar for Semi Trailers

Mytee Products 2 Pack Heavy Duty Adjustable Load Lock Bar for Semi Trailers, Truck Box - 89.75"-104.5" Long Steel Ratcheting Cargo Bar Tie-Down Holder for Enclosed Truck & Vans with 2" - 4" Pads

Rating: 8.9/10

Safely securing your cargo is super important. The Mytee Products 2 Pack Heavy Duty Adjustable Load Lock Bar is designed to keep your stuff from moving around in your semi-trailer or truck box. These bars are built tough and can be adjusted to fit snugly between your trailer walls. They’re made of strong steel and have wide pads on each end to protect your trailer and grip your cargo firmly. This set comes with two bars, so you get double the security for your valuable loads.

What We Like:

  • These bars are really strong. They are made of galvanized steel, so they won’t rust easily.
  • You can adjust them to fit many different trailer sizes. They extend from 89.75 inches all the way to 104.5 inches.
  • The pads on the ends are big (2 to 4 inches) and help hold things tight without damaging your trailer.
  • You get two bars in a pack, which is a good deal for securing more cargo.
  • The ratcheting mechanism makes them easy to tighten and loosen.

What Could Be Improved:

  • While they are heavy-duty, they can be a bit heavy to handle when you’re not using them.
  • The 1.5-inch diameter might be a little thick for some very specific, tight spaces, though it adds to their strength.

Overall, these load lock bars are a solid investment for anyone who needs to transport goods securely. They offer great strength and adjustability for keeping your cargo in place.

5. Teltek USA Portable Truck Scales Gauge for Any Semi

Teltek USA Portable Truck Scales Gauge for Any Semi, Pickup Truck or Car - Bezel: Chrome - LED Color: Blue

Rating: 9.1/10

The Teltek USA Portable Truck Scales Gauge is a handy tool for anyone who needs to know the weight of their vehicle. It works for big semi-trucks, smaller pickup trucks, and even cars. This gauge is designed to be accurate and easy to use. It has a stylish chrome bezel and a cool blue LED display.

What We Like:

  • It’s very accurate. When you set it up with 34,000 pounds, it’s only off by about 100 pounds.
  • It fits easily in your vehicle. It goes into a standard 2 1/16 inch hole, which most car dashboards have.
  • If you don’t have a spot for it, you can still mount it in a bracket or on a pillar.
  • The display has a small delay. This means the numbers don’t jump around too much when you’re driving, making it easier to read.
  • It comes with a lifetime warranty, so you don’t have to worry about it breaking unless you intentionally damage it.

What Could Be Improved:

  • The 1-second delay, while helpful, might still feel a little slow for some users who want instant readings.
  • While it fits most dashes, finding a suitable mounting spot might require some planning for older or uniquely designed vehicles.

This Teltek USA gauge offers reliable weight measurements and a sleek look for your vehicle. It’s a smart investment for truckers and vehicle owners who need precise weight information.

Finding the Best Load Boards for Your Semi Truck

Choosing the right load board makes a huge difference for truckers. It connects you with loads, helps you earn more money, and keeps your truck moving. Let’s explore what to look for.

Key Features to Look For
  • Load Availability: A good load board shows you many available loads. More loads mean more chances to find good work.
  • Search Filters: You need to find specific loads easily. Look for filters that let you search by location, type of freight, weight, and pay.
  • Real-Time Updates: Loads disappear fast. A board that updates instantly helps you grab the best opportunities.
  • Pricing and Fees: Understand how much the service costs. Some charge a monthly fee, while others take a small percentage of your load.
  • User-Friendly Interface: The app or website should be easy to navigate. You don’t want to waste time figuring out how to use it.
  • Carrier Reviews and Ratings: See what other truckers think. Positive reviews often mean a reliable service.
  • Support: If you have questions or problems, good customer support is essential.
Important Materials (for the Service, not the Truck!)

Load boards are digital tools. The “materials” here refer to the technology and data that make them work.

  • Robust Database: The board needs a large collection of load information. This comes from shippers and brokers.
  • Reliable Servers: The platform must be stable and always available. Downtime means lost opportunities.
  • Secure Data: Your information and the load details must be kept safe.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Factors That Improve Quality:
  • Frequent Updates: The more often loads are added and removed, the more current the information is.
  • Accurate Information: Correct details about the load, pickup, and drop-off points prevent mistakes.
  • Direct Broker Connections: Boards that connect you directly to brokers often have more loads and better communication.
  • Mobile App: A well-designed app lets you find loads on the go.
Factors That Reduce Quality:
  • Outdated Loads: Seeing loads that have already been booked is frustrating.
  • Hidden Fees: Unexpected charges can eat into your profits.
  • Poor Navigation: A confusing website or app makes it hard to find what you need.
  • Limited Load Options: If the board doesn’t have many loads for your type of truck or route, it’s not very useful.
User Experience and Use Cases

A great load board makes your job easier. You can quickly see available freight and book loads that fit your schedule and truck. Truckers use load boards for many reasons.

  • Finding Backhauls: After dropping off a load, you need to find another one to avoid driving empty. Load boards are perfect for this.
  • Filling Gaps in Schedule: If you have unexpected downtime, a load board can help you find short-term work.
  • Maximizing Earnings: By comparing prices and routes, you can choose the most profitable loads.
  • Expanding Your Network: Some boards allow you to build relationships with brokers and shippers.
  • Planning Routes: You can see loads along your planned routes, making your trips more efficient.

Ultimately, a good load board is an essential tool for any semi-truck driver looking to be successful and keep their business running smoothly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What is a load board?

A: A load board is an online platform that connects truck drivers with available freight from shippers and brokers.

Q: How do load boards make money?

A: Most load boards charge a monthly subscription fee. Some may also take a small percentage of the load cost.

Q: Are all load boards the same?

A: No, load boards differ in the number of loads they offer, their features, pricing, and how easy they are to use.

Q: Can I find loads for any type of truck on a load board?

A: Most load boards have filters to help you find loads specific to your truck type, like flatbeds, reefers, or dry vans.

Q: Is it better to use a load board with a mobile app?

A: Yes, a mobile app is very helpful because it allows you to search for and book loads while you are on the road.

Q: How often are loads updated on a load board?

A: Reputable load boards update their listings frequently, often in real-time, to show the most current availability.

Q: What is a “backhaul”?

A: A backhaul is a load that a truck picks up after delivering its previous load, helping to avoid empty miles.

Q: Can I negotiate rates through a load board?

A: While the load board itself doesn’t negotiate, it shows you the offered rates, allowing you to decide if they are acceptable or if you need to find a different load.

Q: Do load boards guarantee work?

A: No, load boards do not guarantee work. They provide a marketplace to find available loads, but booking them depends on your availability and the load’s requirements.

Q: Is it worth paying for a load board?

A: For most owner-operators and small fleets, paying for a good load board is definitely worth it. It helps you find more paying loads and maximize your truck’s uptime.

In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.

If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.