How to find box truck loads without a CDL

Do you need a CDL for a box truck?

Usually not. A box truck with a GVWR of 26,000 lbs or less does not need a CDL unless you haul hazmat that needs placards or carry 16 or more passengers. Most 26ft box trucks are built just under that line. Check the GVWR sticker on the driver's door to be sure.

What you still need

• USDOT number for interstate trucks over 10,000 lbs
• Operating authority (MC) to haul for-hire across state lines, or run under a carrier's authority
• DOT medical card for vehicles over 10,000 lbs in interstate commerce
• Insurance: auto liability and cargo, with the filing on record at FMCSA
• A liftgate and pallet jack, because many shippers ask for them

Where box truck loads come from

• Load boards like DAT and Truckstop: search for 'box truck', 'straight truck' and partial loads
• Expedite and LTL freight: smaller, time-sensitive shipments
• Final-mile and furniture/appliance delivery companies
• Direct shippers in your area: warehouses, distributors, trade-show and event companies

What box trucks gross

A busy box truck often grosses about $5,000–6,000 a week, depending on lanes, season and how few empty miles you run. Liftgate, team and expedite loads usually pay more.

Let a dispatcher keep you busy

Box truck freight moves fast and pays best when someone is on the boards all day. Our box truck dispatch is 8% or $300 a week on your own MC, or from 17% under our authority if you don't have one yet.

Quick answers

How much does a 26ft box truck make a week?
Commonly $5,000–6,000 gross in a good week, before fuel and costs.

Can I get loads without my own MC?
Yes. You can lease on and run under an established carrier's authority.

More guides: Loads with a new MC · Dispatch fees explained · Lease on vs own MC · How to choose a dispatcher · Hotshot loads guide · Best load boards · Get your MC & DOT number · Factoring explained · IFTA filing guide · Cargo van loads guide