Power only trucking is one of the lowest-overhead niches in freight. Learn how to dispatch power only loads, find drop-and-hook programs, negotiate rates, and build a profitable dispatch operation with carriers who don't own trailers.
Power only refers to a carrier providing just the tractor — the "power unit" — to move a trailer they don't own. The shipper, broker, or 3PL supplies the loaded trailer, and the driver simply hooks up, hauls, and drops. For dispatchers, this niche is attractive because carriers have minimal equipment investment and can take on high volumes of drop-and-hook freight.
| Source | Best For | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Amazon Relay | High-volume drop-and-hook | Dedicated power only program |
| Uber Freight | App-based power only loads | Easy onboarding |
| J.B. Hunt 360 | Drop trailer network | Large trailer pool |
| DAT One | Filtering power only freight | Filter by 'Power Only' |
| Truckstop | Broker power only loads | Good rate data |
| Schneider Power Only | Dedicated trailer pool | Steady freight |
Learn more about load boards in our complete load board guide.
Confirm the trailer is staged and ready before dispatching the driver to avoid wasted miles.
Ensure your driver's tractor matches the trailer's kingpin and height requirements.
Chain loads together to keep trucks moving and minimize empty miles.
Understand trailer interchange agreements and who's liable for trailer damage.
Power only rates are slightly lower per mile than standard van freight because the carrier has no trailer cost. For rate negotiation tactics, see our freight rate negotiation guide.
Power only freight is a beginner-friendly niche with low equipment barriers and steady drop-and-hook volume. It's an excellent entry point for new dispatchers building a carrier roster.
Our complete course covers power only dispatching, drop-and-hook programs, and everything you need to build a profitable dispatch business.
Get Started TodayPower only trucking is when a carrier provides just the tractor (the power unit) to haul a trailer owned by the shipper, broker, or another party. The driver hooks up to a pre-loaded trailer, hauls it, and drops it — no trailer ownership required.
Power only loads typically pay $1.50-$2.50 per mile. Rates are often slightly lower than van freight because the carrier has no trailer investment, but margins can be excellent since there's no trailer maintenance or ownership cost.
No special equipment beyond a standard day cab or sleeper tractor with a fifth wheel. Drivers must be comfortable hooking and dropping various trailer types. Dispatchers just need access to power only load boards and broker relationships.
Power only loads are found on DAT, Truckstop, and specialized programs like Amazon Relay, Uber Freight, and J.B. Hunt 360. Many large shippers and 3PLs run dedicated power only programs that dispatchers can tap into.