How to Choose Between Two Loads: A Realistic Dispatching Case Study
Choosing between two loads is a multi-variable decision. A dispatcher should reject hard operational mismatches first, then compare the remaining options using total miles, timing, rate, destination, next-market position, driver availability, and carrier preferences.
This worked example uses invented numbers for training. It is not a recommendation for a live truck.
Truck profile
Assume a fictional dry-van truck is empty near Chicago.
Carrier instructions
- 53-foot dry van;
- available at 07:30 Central;
- driver reports enough legal availability for either option if appointments remain as described;
- carrier prefers Southeast or Midwest freight;
- carrier wants all-in RPM shown, not loaded RPM alone;
- no multi-stop loads today.
Two viable loads remain after equipment and broker checks.
Load A
Chicago area → Atlanta
- Deadhead: 55 miles
- Loaded miles: 720
- Pay: $2,250
- Pickup: 10:00 Central
- Delivery: next day, 08:00 Eastern
- One pickup / one delivery
- Destination: Atlanta market
Calculations:
Loaded RPM = $2,250 ÷ 720 = $3.13
Total miles = 775
All-in RPM = $2,250 ÷ 775 ≈ $2.90
Load B
Chicago area → Nashville
- Deadhead: 15 miles
- Loaded miles: 470
- Pay: $1,750
- Pickup: 09:00 Central
- Delivery: same day, 18:00 Central
- One pickup / one delivery
- Destination: Nashville market
Loaded RPM = $1,750 ÷ 470 ≈ $3.72
Total miles = 485
All-in RPM = $1,750 ÷ 485 ≈ $3.61
At first glance, Load B has stronger all-in RPM.
Step 1: check hard constraints
Before comparing the money, ask:
- Can the driver realistically reach pickup?
- Is the appointment confirmed?
- Is the commodity acceptable?
- Does the load fit the trailer?
- Are there unresolved special requirements?
- Does the driver have the required availability?
- Has the broker been verified?
- Does the carrier approve the destination?
Assume both loads pass.
Step 2: compare total miles
Load A uses 775 total miles.
Load B uses 485 total miles.
Load B earns less total revenue but more revenue per all-in mile in this example.
That still does not decide the winner.
Step 3: compare time
Load A ties the truck to an overnight delivery.
Load B is scheduled to deliver the same day.
A shorter cycle may let the carrier reposition or take another load sooner, but only if suitable freight exists and the driver remains available.
Do not count hypothetical future revenue as if it were already booked.
Step 4: compare destination
Atlanta and Nashville are different next-load markets.
A dispatcher could research current load availability and carrier preferences for each market.
If Atlanta has stronger next-day opportunities for this carrier's equipment, Load A might become strategically attractive despite lower all-in RPM.
If Nashville allows a quick reload toward a preferred area, Load B may remain stronger.
The correct answer depends on current data.
Step 5: compare operational risk
Ask:
- Is either appointment unusually tight?
- Is either facility known to require extra check-in time?
- Are accessorial terms clear?
- Is there greater weather or traffic risk?
- Does either load have special commodity or document requirements?
A small rate advantage may not compensate for a much higher operational risk.
Step 6: present the choice to the carrier
A professional recommendation separates facts from judgment.
Example:
Load A pays $2,250 at about $2.90 all-in RPM and positions the truck in Atlanta tomorrow morning. Load B pays $1,750 at about $3.61 all-in RPM and delivers in Nashville tonight. Both appear operationally feasible based on current information. The main tradeoff is higher total revenue and Atlanta positioning versus stronger all-in RPM and a shorter cycle.
Then the carrier can approve the preferred option.
What would change the decision?
This case changes if:
- the driver's availability is lower;
- an appointment moves;
- broker information changes;
- a better reload is confirmed;
- deadhead estimate changes;
- weather or traffic affects timing;
- the carrier changes its lane preference.
Dispatching is not a static formula.
A reusable load-comparison template
| Factor | Load A | Load B |
|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||
| Loaded miles | ||
| Total miles | ||
| Pay | ||
| Loaded RPM | ||
| All-in RPM | ||
| Pickup feasibility | ||
| Delivery timing | ||
| Destination | ||
| Next-market evidence | ||
| Broker verified | ||
| Main risk |
Frequently asked questions
Should the highest all-in RPM always win?
No. Timing, destination, carrier preference, next-market position, and operational risk can matter.
Should the dispatcher decide without the carrier?
Follow the carrier's approval process. A dispatcher can present a recommendation and the supporting facts.
Can I include expected reload revenue?
Use confirmed information separately. Do not turn a possible future load into guaranteed revenue.
Practice decisions, not slogans
Use the RPM guide, deadhead guide, and HOS guide to build your own two-load training cases.
Sources and further reference
Worked scenarios, comparisons, and checklists in this article are educational examples or editorial recommendations. They are not promises of employment, rates, revenue, or profit.
