What is a Freight Dispatcher?
A freight dispatcher (also known as a truck dispatcher or independent dispatcher) is a logistics professional who connects truck drivers and carriers with loads that need to be transported. Unlike freight brokers who require an MC Authority and $75,000 surety bond, dispatchers work as agents for carriers and do not need federal licensing to operate.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the transportation and warehousing industry employed over 6.5 million workers in 2025, with dispatchers and logistics coordinators being among the fastest-growing occupations in the sector.
Dispatcher vs. Freight Broker
Legal Requirements
- +No CDL (Commercial Driver's License) required
- +No MC Authority or USDOT number needed
- +Simple business registration (LLC recommended)
- +Optional: E&O Insurance ($300-500/year)
- +Must comply with FMCSA regulations when working with carriers









