Are dispatching courses worth it?

[SweetDreams]

I'm looking to start a dispatching career to support my father, who recently bought a reefer truck. I feel his current dispatcher might not be giving him the best deal, as they're taking a 20% fee while providing the trailer. Since my father doesn’t speak English, I’m considering becoming his dispatcher. Although dispatching is often described as straightforward, I’m finding it hard to locate information on how to acquire loads. Would it be possible to learn dispatching skills effectively through YouTube videos or perhaps a free truck dispatcher training PDF, or should I consider investing in a structured course? Given that I work full-time, gaining experience at a dispatch agency isn’t a practical option for me :)

[Whisper3r]

YouTube videos can cover the very basics, but most of the YouTube “dispatchers” I've seen are inexperienced or lack depth. To really get started, the first step is a DAT account. However, getting access requires setting up an MC (Motor Carrier) authority, along with active insurance definitely a complex but achievable process.

It may be worthwhile for your dad to save a few thousand and open his own MC if possible, as a 20% cut, even with trailer and insurance included, is steep. You can find a solid dry van for around $1,000 monthly, or a reefer for about $1,500. Insurance for these larger, 53-foot vehicles running across the country shouldn’t exceed $1,500 per month.

Dispatching isn’t difficult to pick up, but mastering it takes finesse. I started at 21 with limited English, so if you’re determined, you’ll do just fine. Start by getting that DAT account and making those calls. I even have an old guide on the basics of dispatching. Rates and prime areas change, but the fundamentals are consistent.

Avoid paying for “courses” they’re rarely worth it, as everything you need to know is available online for free. 😉

[Solare]

Entering the dispatching business to support your father is commendable. While YouTube offers basic insights, comprehensive understanding often requires more structured learning. Given your full-time job, enrolling in a reputable online course could provide flexibility and in-depth knowledge.

It's important to note that the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has issued guidance clarifying the roles of brokers and dispatch services. This guidance aims to prevent unauthorized brokerage activities and ensure compliance with federal regulations.
FMCSA

Considering these developments, you might also explore becoming a freight agent or, eventually, a freight broker. This path not only aligns with regulatory standards but also offers greater control over load acquisition and business operations.

In summary, while free resources can provide an introduction, investing in formal training and understanding current regulations will better equip you to support your father's trucking business effectively.

[Tinker]

Here's some advice: During the Gold Rush, those who sold shovels and maps often made more than those searching for gold. Similarly, in trucking, having firsthand experience is invaluable. I drove a truck for 13 years, and I've been in dispatching for the last five. Personally, I wouldn’t hire someone who hasn’t been behind the wheel and doesn’t understand a driver’s mindset. If you’re serious about dispatching, consider getting a CDL and driving for a few years. Being able to relate to a driver who’s been waiting 12+ hours at a shipper can make a world of difference. Knowing what to say in that moment is crucial and that kind of understanding doesn’t come from any school or course; it’s about lived experience, and it’s not always about the money.