Carrier411 is a website you should 100% be aware of. It operates just like Yelp, but for the trucking industry. When you go to a restaurant, you can hop on Yelp and write a review based on your experience — "I had an outstanding experience at the Cheesecake Factory off Peachtree Street, my server was Alisha and she was fantastic!"
Carrier411.com is the exact same thing, but for trucking companies. When you're running a load for a broker, direct shipper, or freight forwarder, they can write a review on your performance — good or bad. The shipper where you're loading is watching you. The receiver where you're delivering is watching you, and has to sign off on pickup and delivery. If a carrier arrives late, that shipper tells the broker, and the broker hops on Carrier411 and writes it up: "MC:996633 Bull Dog Trucking, LLC was put on a load from Miami to Atlanta and showed up 30 minutes late for delivery. This carrier is not responsible. I do not recommend them." That negative review is now visible to every broker or shipper in the United States.
Before booking loads with carriers, brokers will say, "Yes, I can give you the load, but first let me check your MC#" — and they'll type it into Carrier411. If there are negative reviews, they might not give you the load. "Carrier411 says you've been late to several deliveries, and this load has to be delivered on time. Sorry, but I can't give it to you."
But there are tons of positive reviews on there too. When a carrier does a great job, arrives early or on time, you can ask the shipper or receiver to pass along a positive review. "MC:887755 Max Express, LLC did an outstanding job. We had a delay at the shipper causing a 3-hour wait, but the carrier was very patient and even helped with loading while we were shorthanded. Great job! I highly recommend Max Express."
Remember, doing a great job and protecting your trucking company's reputation in this industry is extremely important. Brokers use Carrier411 reviews to determine reputations and decide whether or not they want to work with a carrier.