Dispatch services are easy to start and hard to do well. The difference between a partner who raises your revenue and one who simply books whatever is cheap to find shows up in the first two weeks.
Ask about forced dispatch immediately
If a service can book a load without your approval, walk away. You own the truck, the authority and the risk. Approval should never be optional.
Understand exactly what the percentage covers
Some companies charge for dispatch only, then bill separately for invoicing, document handling and compliance help. Ask for the full picture in writing: setup fees, minimums, charges on loads you find yourself, and notice period to cancel.
Ask who your dispatcher will be
A named dispatcher who knows your equipment and preferences will out-earn a rotating queue every time. Ask how many carriers that person handles and whether they specialize in your trailer type.
Test their rate discipline
Ask how they benchmark a rate before accepting it. A good answer includes lane data, backhaul strength, deadhead and fuel. A vague answer means they are taking posted rates.
Watch the contract length
Month-to-month with written notice is normal and fair. Long lock-ins protect the dispatcher, not you. A service confident in its results does not need to trap you.