How do I sell a truck dispatch business?

A dispatch business has no trucks to point to, so a buyer looks at the relationships and the way work gets done. The more of it you can show on paper, the easier the conversation. Start early, because gathering these records takes longer than most owners expect. Our guide to selling a trucking business covers carriers that own trucks.

The carrier roster and agreements

List the carriers you dispatch, how long each has been with you and how much of your revenue each represents. Put signed agreements in order. Where an arrangement is only a handshake, consider whether to put it in writing now. A buyer will ask what happens if a large carrier leaves.

Accounts, software and records

Check whose name each load-board, shipper and software account is in. Some may be yours personally. Ask each provider what is needed to move an account to a new owner. Tidy the load history, invoices and contact lists so a buyer can see them clearly.

Your own role

If you do most of the dispatching, say so. A buyer will want to know what stops when you leave. Train a second dispatcher, write down how you handle key shippers and carriers, and decide how long you can stay to help afterward. A sale that can run without you is easier to complete.

Working with professionals

Ask your accountant to prepare clean statements and your lawyer to review your agreements and the terms of sale. A broker can help find buyers, as can listing it yourself. See who does what in a business sale.