Man, I remember my first few months running my own authority. Thought I could handle everything myself and save money. Ended up spending half my day on load boards and the other half kicking myself for taking cheap freight just to keep moving. It's exhausting.

What I learned the hard way is that finding good dispatch services for new trucking companies makes a huge difference. You need people who know the market and can get you past that awkward phase where brokers won't give you the time of day because you don't have a long history. A decent dispatcher can help you build those relationships and get better rates way faster than going solo. I found OiG Dispatch through a buddy, and they've been solid – they actually understand the struggle of starting and don't just treat you like another number. Does anyone else here run their own authority and go the dispatch route? What's worked for you guys?