Freight broker vs dispatcher: what's the difference?
Updated October 2026
A freight broker arranges transportation between shippers and carriers and must have broker operating authority and a $75,000 bond or trust. A dispatcher works for the carrier, finding and booking loads on the carrier's behalf for a fee.
Why it matters
A dispatcher who takes money from shippers or brokers to arrange loads may be acting as a broker, which requires broker authority. If you want to help carriers find loads, learn the difference first.
Need a dispatcher instead? See CDL Dispatch.
