DAT Load Board for Box Trucks: Finding Straight Truck Loads
Box truck operators can find profitable loads on DAT One, but the search approach differs from semi-truck freight. This guide covers equipment filters, realistic rate expectations, search strategies, and how to combine DAT with platforms like Amazon Relay for maximum box truck earnings.
$2.50-$4.00
Typical Rate/Mile
25-300
Typical Haul Miles
$3,000-$4,400
Weekly Earnings Range
No CDL
Under 26,001 lbs GVWR
O Trucking Editorial Team
Trucking Industry Experts
Fact-Checked by O Trucking Dispatch Team
5+ years dispatching box truck operators using DAT and other platforms
Sources:
This article was written by the O Trucking editorial team with 9+ years of combined trucking industry experience. Learn more about us.
O TruckingDAT Load Board for Box Trucks: Finding Straight Truck Loads (2026)
Box Truck Loads on DAT
DAT One includes load postings for box trucks (straight trucks), typically 16-26 foot enclosed trucks. These loads are generally shorter distance, higher rate-per-mile shipments compared to semi-truck freight. Common box truck loads on DAT include LTL shipments, last-mile deliveries, e-commerce fulfillment, furniture, appliances, and medical supplies.
The volume of box truck loads on DAT is lower than semi-truck loads because many box truck shippers use dedicated platforms or direct contracts. However, DAT remains a valuable source for supplemental freight, especially in metro areas with high e-commerce density.
Setting Your Equipment Filters
When searching DAT for box truck loads, set your equipment type correctly:
Straight Truck (ST) — The standard equipment code for box trucks on DAT. Select this for 16-26ft loads.
Cargo Van (CV) — If you have a smaller vehicle, include this filter. Some loads suitable for large cargo vans also fit box trucks.
Dry Van (V) — Some smaller dry van loads can be handled by a 26ft box truck. Check weight and dimensions before accepting.
Box Truck Rate Expectations
| Distance | Rate/Mile | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Under 50 miles | $3.00-$4.00+ | Last-mile, white-glove, local delivery |
| 50-150 miles | $2.50-$3.50 | Regional LTL, e-commerce fulfillment |
| 150-300 miles | $2.25-$3.00 | Longer regional, inter-city freight |
White-Glove Pays Premium
Search Strategies for Box Trucks
Widen your radius — Box truck loads on DAT are concentrated in metro areas. Search a 75-100 mile radius rather than a single city.
Check multiple equipment types — Search ST, CV, and small V loads simultaneously to maximize results.
Set load alerts — Box truck loads get booked fast. Set alerts for your primary metro area so you are notified instantly when new loads post.
Post your truck daily — Many box truck loads come from brokers searching for available trucks. Keep your truck posted with your location and availability.
Combining DAT with Other Box Truck Platforms
DAT should not be your only source for box truck freight. Combine it with:
Amazon Relay — Amazon generates enormous box truck demand. Relay loads pay $2.50-$3.50/mile for 24-26ft trucks with predictable, consistent freight.
Truckstop — Truckstop carries box truck loads and Book It Now lets you book instantly without calling.
Direct shipper contracts — The highest-paying box truck freight comes from direct relationships with shippers who need regular local/regional delivery.
DAT + Amazon Relay = Strong Box Truck Strategy
How Our Team Dispatches Box Trucks
At O Trucking LLC, we dispatch box truck operators using a combination of DAT, Truckstop, Amazon Relay, and direct broker relationships. We know which metro areas have the highest box truck demand, which brokers pay the best rates for straight truck freight, and how to optimize routes for maximum daily revenue. Our box truck carriers typically earn $3,000-$4,400 per week.
Need Box Truck Dispatch?
Our team dispatches box truck operators using DAT, Truckstop, Amazon Relay, and direct broker relationships. We find the highest-paying straight truck freight in your area.