Walmart Direct Freight Program: How Carriers Can Skip Brokers in 2025

Walmart Disrupts Freight Brokerage by Going Direct

In 2025, Walmart is making waves in the logistics world by rolling out a new initiative aimed at giving direct freight access to carriers, completely bypassing brokers. This move is more than just a shift in operations—it’s a signal that retail giants are rethinking how freight is moved in the U.S., and it has major implications for independent carriers, dispatchers, and brokerages alike.

The information was first discussed in the popular trucking news segment "What the Truck?!," where it was confirmed that Walmart will be launching its own load board. The idea is simple: instead of going through brokers, Walmart will allow qualified carriers to bid directly on freight loads headed to and from their nationwide facilities.

Why Is Walmart Cutting Out Brokers?

The freight industry has long relied on brokers as intermediaries between shippers and carriers. While brokers provide value in the form of load sourcing and back-office support, they also cut into carrier margins—sometimes substantially.

Walmart, known for its obsession with supply chain efficiency, appears to be eliminating that middle layer in favor of a direct relationship with carriers. This not only helps them control costs but also ensures a higher level of reliability and transparency in their logistics operations.

It’s a strategy that could appeal to other large retailers too. By bringing freight in-house, companies can streamline communication, tighten delivery schedules, and potentially save millions annually.

What Does This Mean for Carriers?

For many small to mid-sized carriers, this could be a game changer—but not everyone will qualify.

To be eligible for Walmart's direct freight program, carriers must meet specific criteria:

• At least 5 years in business

• A fleet of 11 or more trucks

• Strong safety scores and compliance history
  

While this immediately limits access for newer and smaller carriers, those who do qualify stand to benefit from direct access to one of the most consistent freight streams in the country. Walmart operates thousands of stores and distribution centers nationwide, moving massive volumes of freight every day.

How the Walmart Direct Freight Program Works

Walmart plans to roll out a proprietary load board where eligible carriers can log in, view available freight, and submit bids. This system mirrors some of the more advanced digital freight marketplaces already in use today, but with the added perk of Walmart's scale and consistency.

This means:

• Less dependence on third-party brokers

• More transparency in rates

• Greater control over the loads you take
  

It also puts pressure on traditional brokerages to offer better service, pricing, and support in order to remain competitive. If Walmart’s direct model proves successful, expect to see other retailers follow suit.

What Carriers Should Do Now

If you're a carrier or dispatcher with a qualifying fleet, now is the time to get your compliance and documentation in order. Make sure:

• Your FMCSA profile is up to date

• Safety scores and inspections are clean

• Your internal operations are prepared to handle more direct contracts
  

Additionally, it’s worth exploring Walmart’s vendor setup process and monitoring industry news for updates on when and how to apply for access to the load board.

Even if you're not eligible right now, use this as motivation to scale. With more shippers likely to consider direct carrier relationships, the next wave of load board disruption is coming fast.

Is This the Beginning of a New Freight Era?

Walmart's move might seem like a small operational tweak, but it's part of a broader industry trend. Technology, transparency, and tighter margins are forcing the freight ecosystem to evolve.

Digital freight matching platforms like Uber Freight, Convoy (before its exit), and others have already shown that brokers are no longer the only viable option. Walmart entering this space with its own infrastructure only validates the shift.

For brokers, this is a wake-up call to evolve and add value beyond just load matchmaking. For carriers, it's a clear opportunity to reclaim margin and control.

Final Thoughts

Walmart's new freight model is not just a logistics update—it's a power move that could ripple throughout the entire trucking ecosystem. By giving qualified carriers the ability to work directly with one of the nation's largest shippers, Walmart is empowering fleets while driving a hard bargain on transparency and performance.

For carriers who meet the bar, this is the future. For everyone else, it’s time to level up.

Stay tuned to balkandispatch.com for more industry updates, dispatching insights, and tools to grow your fleet the smart way.