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What is the difference between a truck dispatcher and a freight broker?

A broker stands between shipper and carrier, needs FMCSA broker authority and a $75,000 financial security, and is paid out of the freight money. A dispatcher works for the carrier, is paid by the carrier, and mostly books loads from brokers.

The broker arranges transportation for the shipper and keeps a margin. The dispatcher represents the truck owner and takes a fee from the truck owner.

The line is not always clear in practice. That is why FMCSA issued guidance in 2023 on when a dispatch service starts to look like a broker.

Since Jan 16, 2026 a rule on broker financial responsibility has been in force, including the $75,000 security and a short window to refill it.

Example. A broker bills a shipper $2,000 and pays a carrier $1,700, keeping $300. A dispatcher books that same $1,700 load for the carrier and invoices the carrier 6%, which is $102.

General information, not legal advice. Rules change. Check the sources and talk to a transportation lawyer before you sign or start.

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Last reviewed Thu, Nov 12, 2026 · Where our data comes from