FlatLoads

FlatLoads is a specialist marketplace for flatbed and open-deck freight, combining load listings with a working community. It is best suited to carriers, owner-operators, brokers, and shippers whose decisions depend on deck type, dimensions, and securement requirements. General freight users may find the paid contact and matching functions unnecessary.

Overview

The board covers flatbed, step deck, removable gooseneck, double drop, lowboy, B-train, Conestoga, and hotshot equipment. Each load includes length, width, height, and weight, along with tarping responsibility and securement requirements. That mandatory specification makes it easier to reject loads that do not fit a trailer or operating capability before spending time on a call.

A forum, member ratings, and broker pay-speed history add context beyond individual postings. One account works across FlatLoads, BulkLoads.com, Livestock Loads, Dispatch, Insurance, and Quick Pay, which is useful for operators already using several of those services. Sales and support are based in Springfield, Missouri, and can be reached at 1-800-518-9240.

Key features

Carrier tools

The Carrier plan supplies full load details and direct contact information, then adds text and push lane alerts, broker ratings and pay history, deck, capacity, and lane filters, and the ability to post a truck with preferred deck and lanes. Those controls are aimed at narrowing a specialized board to workable opportunities. The free account can browse boards and post a truck or classified, but it does not include full load details or direct contact information, so serious booking activity generally requires the paid tier.

Shipper and broker tools

The Shipper & Broker plan allows unlimited load posting, searches and broadcasts to matching carriers, carrier vetting, deck and capacity filters, direct messaging, and posting-performance reporting. Unlimited posting is a meaningful distinction for businesses moving recurring freight; vetting and pay-history information can also support screening decisions. Smaller shippers posting only occasionally may not recover the higher monthly cost.

Community and account coverage

Forum access, ratings, and broker pay-speed history are included in the free plan, making the community useful even before upgrading. The shared account across related Bulk Loads Now services reduces the need to maintain separate credentials, although the value depends on whether those other products matter to your operation.

Pricing

There is no free trial. Memberships are month to month, with no application fee or annual commitment; cancellation takes effect at the end of the paid period. The free tier is a credible browsing and networking option, but its capped access to load information limits its usefulness for a carrier trying to contact a specific counterparty. The $29.99 Carrier plan is the lower-cost practical entry for active hauling. At $99.00, Shipper & Broker is justified mainly when unlimited posting, carrier search, and reporting are regular requirements.

Platforms

FlatLoads runs on the web and has Android and iOS apps, including iPhone and iPad support. Carrier alerts are delivered by text and push. API access is listed, while the privacy notice says information may be shared with Google Maps Platform APIs. Payment data is stored by Authorize.net. The service says it uses organizational and technical safeguards but does not guarantee complete security for internet transmission or storage.

Who it's for

Choose FlatLoads if your freight uses specialized open-deck equipment and you need dimensions, securement, and tarping information in the initial listing. It is also a fit for carriers who value broker payment history and lane alerts, and for brokers or shippers that need recurring postings and carrier outreach. It is less compelling for users handling ordinary van freight, occasional searches, or operations that do not need direct contact and matching tools.

Pros and cons

• Pro: Equipment-specific coverage and mandatory dimensions make load suitability clearer.
• Pro: Carrier alerts, filters, ratings, and pay history support faster, more informed prospecting.
• Pro: Shipper and broker members get unlimited posting, carrier vetting, messaging, and performance reporting.
• Con: Full details and direct contacts are reserved for the paid Carrier plan.
• Con: The $99.00 Shipper & Broker price may be excessive for infrequent posters.
• Con: There is no free trial, so paid users must judge fit within a month-to-month subscription.

Alternatives

Pick Direct Freight if three free load searches per day, matching alerts, mileage and maps, and mobile apps meet your needs. Amazon Relay is the simpler choice for approved carriers wanting free access without subscription fees, subject to carrier requirements. Choose BulkLoads when its free forum, washout search, multiple-user support, and app access are more relevant. Carrier 360 by J.B. Hunt suits approved carriers seeking that network's loads, although some are not eligible for instant booking. Carrier First Management is better for a broker wanting free postings plus quoting, communication, invoicing, and document management. Doft Load Board fits carriers wanting unlimited free search and shippers wanting a free entry tier. FreightLink offers free access for approved members and a future subscription option. LaneRunner is an alternative for shippers wanting unlimited free posting and private networks.

For a wider comparison, see Load Board Software.

Verdict

FlatLoads is a strong choice for flatbed and open-deck professionals who need precise equipment data, broker payment context, and targeted contact tools. The free plan works for browsing and community participation, while the Carrier plan is the sensible upgrade for active operators. Look elsewhere if you need a general freight marketplace, a free trial, or paid features that cost less for occasional posting.