Comparison guide
Comparing dispatch fee arrangements
Dispatch pricing comes in a few standard models. Each has tradeoffs — and the same headline rate can cost very different amounts depending on the basis. Here is the plain-language version.
Percentage of gross load revenue
Commonly 5–10% of the total the load pays
Strengths
- • Simple to calculate
- • Incentives aligned: dispatcher earns more when loads pay more
Tradeoffs
- • Percentage applies to the full gross — including the fuel surcharge portion
- • On high-dollar loads the fee can be significant
Percentage of revenue minus fuel surcharge
Same rate range, applied after FSC is removed
Strengths
- • Fairer basis — dispatcher does not earn extra on fuel surcharge
- • Directly addresses a common carrier complaint
Tradeoffs
- • Slightly more complex math on each load
- • Requires the FSC to be itemized on rate confirmations
Flat fee per load
A fixed dollar amount per dispatched load
Strengths
- • Fully predictable per load
- • Easy to compare across loads
Tradeoffs
- • Flat fees are proportionally heavier on small loads
- • Does not scale with load value
Weekly or monthly retainer
A fixed fee for the period, regardless of loads
Strengths
- • Predictable budget
- • No per-load pressure to book freight
Tradeoffs
- • You pay even in slow weeks
- • Can mask low activity — verify actual work performed
Note: these figures describe common market patterns, not Pure Logistics pricing and not an offer. Our actual fee structure is defined in the dispatch agreement, discussed with you before anything is signed.
Do the math
The same rate can cost very different amounts
Take a $2,200 load with $320 in fuel surcharge, at 8%:
- Percentage of gross: 8% × $2,200 = $176
- Percentage minus FSC: 8% × $1,880 = $150.40
Same 8%, $25.60 difference on one load — roughly $100+ per month on four loads a week. Over a year, that is real money. This is why the basis matters as much as the rate.
Run your own numbers with the Dispatch Fee and Take-Home Calculator, which compares all three bases on the loads you actually run.
Beyond price
What else to compare
Communication standards
Response times, escalation paths, and who you talk to. A cheap dispatcher you cannot reach is expensive.
Freight review quality
How thoroughly are load details checked before you see them? Ask for a sample review of a real load.
Honesty about scope
Equipment coverage, lane experience, and market reality — stated plainly, not promised broadly.
Next step
Compare us against the models on this page
Ask about our fee structure, our communication standards, and our equipment scope. We will answer with specifics.