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Power Only Dispatch Services
Power Only
Your Truck, Their Trailer, Your Profit

Power Only Dispatch Services

Specialized power-only dispatch connecting your tractor to pre-loaded trailers. Maximize efficiency with drop-and-hook operations that eliminate loading delays and increase daily revenue.

Per Mile
$2.50
Weekly
$3,800 - $5,200
Annual
$197,000 - $270,000

Common Power Only Freight

Typical loads we find for power only carriers

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Pre-loaded dry van trailers for major retailers

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Reefer trailers from food distribution centers

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Flatbed and step deck trailers (if qualified)

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Intermodal containers on chassis

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Drop-and-hook distribution runs

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Dedicated shipper trailers on regular routes

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Cross-dock operations between warehouses

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LTL carrier trailers between terminals

Best Lanes for Power Only

High-paying lanes where we consistently find profitable freight

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Dedicated Distribution Routes

Walmart, Target, Amazon distribution networks. Consistent power-only work with regular routes. Rates: $2.30-2.90/mile.

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Intermodal Corridors

Port to inland distribution (LA to Vegas, Savannah to Atlanta, etc.). Container chassis power-only moves. Rates: $2.60-3.20/mile.

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LTL Networks

Moving trailers between FedEx Freight, XPO, Estes terminals. Regular runs with established rates. Rates: $2.40-3.00/mile.

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Major Metro Loops

Chicago, Dallas, Atlanta distribution loops. Multiple power-only loads daily within metro region. Rates: $2.20-2.80/mile.

Power Only Challenges We Solve

Common obstacles for power only operators β€” and how we help you overcome them

⚠️Trailer Condition Unknown

The Problem: You're pulling trailers you didn't load or inspect. Hidden damage, poor loading, or mechanical issues can cause problems.

Our Solution: We educate on thorough pre-trip inspections and photograph trailer condition before moving. We also negotiate protection clauses to avoid liability for pre-existing issues or poor loading.

⚠️Trailer Interchange Liability

The Problem: You're responsible for someone else's trailer while in your possession. Damage claims can be complex and costly.

Our Solution: We ensure you have proper trailer interchange insurance ($1M+ coverage) and help you understand interchange agreement terms. We document trailer condition meticulously to protect against false damage claims.

⚠️Limited Load Options

The Problem: Power-only opportunities are concentrated with larger shippers and carriers, not as widely available as standard freight.

Our Solution: We have established relationships with major shippers, carriers, and intermodal providers who regularly need power-only capacity. We also target dedicated lanes where repeat business is available.

⚠️Rate Variability

The Problem: Power-only rates are sometimes lower than full truckload because you're not providing trailer asset or loading/unloading management.

Our Solution: We target high-volume dedicated accounts where efficiency (2-3 loads per day possible) makes up for slightly lower per-mile rates. We also negotiate detention and accessorial fees aggressively.

Why Choose FF Dispatch for Power Only

Real benefits that impact your bottom line

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No Trailer Investment

Save $25,000-50,000 by not purchasing a trailer. Lower insurance, maintenance, and no trailer payment. Your tractor is your only asset.

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Drop-and-Hook Efficiency

No waiting for loading/unloading. Drop the trailer and hook to the next one immediately. Complete 2-3 loads per day vs 1 with traditional freight.

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Consistent Dedicated Work

Power-only often leads to dedicated routes with major shippers (Walmart, Target, Amazon), providing predictable schedules and steady income.

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Lower Maintenance Costs

Trailer maintenance (tires, brakes, doors, reefer units) is not your concern. Focus solely on maintaining your tractor, reducing costs 20-30%.

Equipment Requirements

What you need to run power only freight successfully

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Class 8 tractor with functional fifth wheel

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No trailer required (you pull shipper/carrier trailers)

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Trailer interchange insurance ($1M+ recommended)

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Pre-trip inspection knowledge for trailers you didn't load

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Gladhand connections and electrical pigtails

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Landing gear crank handle

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Basic understanding of trailer types (dry van, reefer, flatbed)

Power Only Dispatch FAQ

Common questions about power only dispatch services

What exactly is power-only dispatch?+
Power-only means you provide the tractor (power unit) only - no trailer. You pull pre-loaded trailers owned by shippers or other carriers. It's also called "power unit only" or "bobtail with trailer." You hook to loaded trailers at origin, deliver, drop the trailer, and pick up another pre-loaded trailer for the next run. It's all drop-and-hook, eliminating loading wait times.
How much can I save by not owning a trailer?+
Significant savings: Trailer purchase: $25,000-50,000 saved upfront, Trailer insurance: $1,200-2,400/year saved, Trailer maintenance: $2,000-4,000/year saved (tires, brakes, inspections), Total: $28,000-56,000 saved in first year, $3,000-6,000/year ongoing. These savings partially offset slightly lower per-mile rates, and efficiency gains (more loads per day) often result in equal or higher total revenue.
Do I need special insurance for power-only?+
Yes - trailer interchange insurance (also called non-owned trailer coverage) is essential. It covers damage to trailers you're pulling but don't own. Typically $1M-2M coverage, costing $1,500-3,000/year. This is in addition to your standard liability and cargo insurance. We help you understand requirements and connect with insurers specializing in power-only coverage.
Can I make as much money with power-only as standard trucking?+
Yes, sometimes more due to efficiency. While power-only rates are 5-15% lower per mile ($2.50/mile vs $2.85/mile), you complete 2-3 loads daily vs 1 with traditional freight. Example: Standard: 1 load x 500 miles x $2.85 = $1,425/day. Power-only: 2.5 loads x 400 miles x $2.50 = $2,500/day. The drop-and-hook efficiency often results in higher daily gross revenue.
What if the trailer I'm picking up is damaged or poorly loaded?+
Critical rule: ALWAYS inspect thoroughly before moving. Check: trailer exterior for damage, doors and seals, landing gear, tires and brakes, lights and electrical, interior condition if accessible. Photograph everything. If you see serious issues, reject the trailer and notify dispatch immediately. Never accept a trailer that's unsafe or has obvious cargo damage. We help you understand what's acceptable vs what should be rejected.
Is power-only work available nationwide or only certain areas?+
Most concentrated in major distribution markets: Chicago, Dallas, Atlanta, Southern California, Pennsylvania/New Jersey, Phoenix, Memphis, Kansas City. These areas have major retail distribution centers and intermodal hubs. Power-only is less common in rural areas. We focus on markets with consistent power-only demand and help you position for maximum opportunity.
How do I get into dedicated power-only accounts like Walmart or Target?+
These require vetting: Clean DOT safety record (no major violations in past 2 years), 6-12 months power-only experience preferred, Proper insurance coverage, Professional reputation. We have relationships with these accounts and can help qualified carriers get approved. Many start with spot power-only work, then transition to dedicated accounts once they prove reliability.
What happens if I damage a shipper's trailer?+
Your trailer interchange insurance covers it, minus your deductible (typically $1,000-5,000). Report damage immediately to dispatch and insurance. This is why pre-trip documentation is critical - it proves damage was pre-existing vs caused by you. We help you navigate damage claims and insurance processes. Most damage is minor (scratches, dings) and doesn't impact your ability to continue working.

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