Truck dispatch in California

Where the freight is in California

Main corridors

The interstates most of our California loads run on: I-5, CA-99, I-10, I-15, I-40, I-80.

I-5 and CA-99 run the length of the state. I-10, I-15 and I-40 carry freight east out of Southern California, and I-80 crosses the Sierra from the Bay Area.

Freight and seasons

Imported containers, produce, nuts, wine and dairy lead outbound freight. Salinas lettuce runs roughly spring to fall, and in winter much of that production moves to the desert near the Arizona border, so reefer lanes shift with it. Winter storms can close I-80 over Donner Pass and I-5 over the Grapevine, and chain controls apply.

California rules to know

Every interstate carrier needs a USDOT number, MC authority, UCR and, for most semis, IRP plates and an IFTA license. On top of that:

Truck and Bus Regulation

Since January 1, 2023, diesel vehicles over 14,000 lb GVWR operating in California must have a 2010 or newer model-year engine. This applies to out-of-state trucks too. Source

Clean Truck Check

Nearly all diesel vehicles over 14,000 lb GVWR that run in California, including out-of-state trucks, must be reported in CARB's CTC-VIS system, pay a yearly compliance fee and pass periodic emissions tests. Check CARB's page for the current schedule before your first trip. Source

Reefer units (TRU)

Transport refrigeration units that operate in California must be reported in CARB's ARBER system and display CARB compliance labels. Source

Port drayage

Trucks entering the Los Angeles and Long Beach terminals must be listed in the Port Drayage Truck Registry, and new registrations must be 2014 model year or newer. Source

55 mph for trucks

Trucks with 3 or more axles and any vehicle towing a trailer are limited to 55 mph. That includes semis and hotshots. Source

Intrastate: Motor Carrier Permit

Carriers hauling only interstate freight don't need a California Motor Carrier Permit. Hauling loads that stay inside California does require one, and the rule covers hotshot pickups carrying freight for pay. Source

Advanced Clean Fleets

CARB is no longer enforcing the drayage and high-priority fleet parts of Advanced Clean Fleets. Rules for state and local government fleets remain. Source

Cities we cover in California

Fresno · Los Angeles · Ontario · Sacramento · Stockton

How we dispatch here

• Before we book your first California load, we confirm your engine year, Clean Truck Check status and, for reefers, ARBER.
• We line up the Inland Empire or Central Valley reload before your truck delivers into Southern California.
• We plan transit times at 55 mph, not 70, so appointments stay realistic.
• In winter we watch I-80 and the Grapevine and route around chain controls when we can.

Pricing

a percentage of the load's gross, quoted for your truck and lanes, charged only on loads we book. No contract and your first load is free. See full pricing.

Questions carriers ask