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Amazon Relay offers direct access to thousands of daily loads and reliable weekly pay , but its automated application is notoriously strict .  One small mistake on your company details or insurance can lead to frustrating delays and rejections.  This guide is your pro playbook.  We will walk you through every step  to ensure you get approved on the first try. Amazon Relay Carrier Requirements Before you fill out a single field, Amazon's automated system checks your public carrier data. If you don't meet these minimum requirements, the system will reject your application .  Let's make sure you pass this first test.   Your Authority & Operational History (U.S. Carriers) DOT & MC Numbers:  You must have a valid U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) number and a valid Motor Carrier (MC) number.   The 180-Day 'Seasoning' Rule :  This is the most important filter. Your DOT number must have interstate authority that has been active for a minimum of 180 days .   Pro-Tip: You can technically apply before your 180 days are up. Amazon will simply place your application in a pending queue, but you will not be approved until you cross that 180-day mark.   Entity Type:  Your FMCSA filing must be a "Carrier" entity type that is "Authorized for Property" and "for Hire".   Your Company's "Report Card" (FMCSA Safety Scores) Amazon holds its carriers to a high standard of safety. Your public FMCSA profile  must show: Safety Rating:  A "Satisfactory," "None," or "Not Rated" rating. A "Conditional" or "Unsatisfactory" rating is an automatic disqualifier.   BASIC Scores:  You must be below these specific percentiles. Failing even one of these can get you denied :   Unsafe Driving: Below 60% HOS Compliance:  Below 60% Vehicle Maintenance:  Below 75% Controlled Substances / Alcohol:  Below 75% Driver Fitness: Below 75% Amazon Relay Truck and Equipment Requirements This program is for middle-mile freight, not last-mile packages. The Big Exception:   Cargo vans are NOT accepted  for Amazon Relay.   Accepted Equipment Includes  :   Tractors:  Day cabs and sleeper cabs. Trailers:  53’ dry vans, 53’ reefers, and 48’ trailers. Box Trucks :  26’ and 16’ models. Crucial Detail:  They must be dock-height and have a functional tuck-under lift-gate .   Intermodal:  20’, 40’, and 45’ containers (requires UIIA certification). Amazon Relay Insurance Requirements (The #1 Cause of Delays) Listen closely, because this is the single most important part of your application. Amazon states clearly that the number one reason for application delays is the validation of insurance information Your application's insurance check is automated. If your policy is missing a single requirement or your agent is slow to respond, your application will remain in a "pending" status indefinitely. The Non-Negotiable Coverage (U.S. Carriers) Before you apply, you must have policies with these exact minimums: Policy Type Minimum Coverage Amount Commercial General Liability $1,000,000 per occurrence / $2,000,000 aggregate Auto Liability $1,000,000 per occurrence Cargo Coverage $100,000 Workers' Compensation Required in all jurisdictions where you operate Employer Liability $100,000 per occurrence The "Secret" Requirement You Can't Miss Look at that list again. Tucked inside the Auto Liability  policy is a non-standard requirement that trips up most carriers: You must have $50,000 in trailer replacement coverage . This is not typically included in a standard policy. It’s an endorsement you must specifically ask for. It covers Amazon's trailer when you're hauling power-only loads. If you apply without it, you will be rejected. Pro-Tips for a Flawless Insurance Validation Don't let an automated system fail you. Do these three things before you submit your application: The "Verbatim" Match:  The system is not human. If your Certificate of Insurance (COI) says "Progressive Southeast Insurance Company," you must enter that exact name. If you just type "Progressive," the automated match will fail, and you'll be delayed. Use the Right Contacts:  Do not use a generic "info@" email. Get the direct email address and phone number for your specific insurance agent or the person in their office who handles COI requests. This is where the automated verifier will send its request. Give Your Agent a Heads-Up:  Call your agent today. Email them the exact list of requirements from the table above. Tell them to add the $50,000 trailer replacement coverage . Most importantly, tell them to expect an automated verification request from Amazon (or a third party like RMIS) and to respond to it immediately. The 20-Minute Amazon Relay Application Once your pre-application audit is done and your insurance is in order, the application itself is fast. Amazon says it can take as little as 20 minutes. The key here is precision.   Where to Apply Scammers and confusing portals are common. Use only these two official links: Official Website:   relay.amazon.com     Official App:  The "Amazon Relay" app on the iOS or Android store   Warning:  Do NOT try to apply through other portals. You will fail. Do NOT use carriercentral.amazon.com :  This is a separate portal for vendors and sellers to schedule their own inbound freight.   Do NOT use amazon.jobs :  This is for hiring Amazon employees.   Do NOT trust third-party load boards:  Amazon only tenders loads directly through its own Relay portal and app.   The Application Flow Here are the exact steps you'll follow. Sign In:  Go to relay.amazon.com  and click "Sign in." You can use your existing Amazon (shopping) account or click "Create new account".   DOT Number:  The very first thing it asks for is your DOT number. The system will "confirm your information instantly".   Company Details:   THIS IS A CRITICAL STEP.  The system is automated. Your legal company name and address must match your FMCSA filing "down to the last dash" .   Pro-Tip:  Open your company's FMCSA SAFER profile in another browser tab and copy-paste your name and address directly from there. OTP Verification:  The system will send a one-time password to your email or phone to verify you are who you say you are.   Equipment Inventory:  You will select the equipment you operate from a list (e.g., "53' dry van," "26' box truck").   Payment Information:  Enter your bank account and routing information so you can get paid weekly.   Insurance Details:  You will enter the policy and agent information you prepared in Phase 2. Agree & Submit:  Review the Carrier Terms of Service and submit your application. "You're Approved for Amazon Relay!"... Now What? Receiving your approval email, which can take anywhere from one to three weeks , is a great feeling. But don't log in expecting to book a load immediately.  You’ve just completed Stage 1 (Company Approval) ; you must now complete Stage 2 (Driver Approval).   The Carrier (Your Company) Your approval email will provide instructions on how to access your new Relay account. Once you log in, you must immediately:   Complete Training:  Finish the mandatory "Relay 101" training in the learning center. It's short, taking only about 10 minutes.   Add Your Assets:  Go to your profile and add your trucks and a list of your drivers.   The Driver (The Individual) This is the step that trips up new carriers. You cannot haul freight until you have at least one fully vetted driver . You must invite your drivers (or yourself, if you're an owner-operator)  to the platform. Then, each driver must individually log in to the Relay app and :   Verify Identity:  Submit a selfie and a clear photo of their driver's license.   Pass a Background Check:  Provide their details to initiate a standardized background check, which they must pass.   You cannot book or haul any loads until your company has completed the Relay 101 training  and you have at least one driver in your system who has been fully approved , verified, and passed their background check. Amazon Relay, Your New Freight Partner The Amazon Relay application is a strict, automated gauntlet, but it's not a mystery. By treating it as a pre-application checklist   rather than just a form, you can avoid 99% of the common frustrations and delays . You now have the complete playbook to get your authority, safety scores, and insurance in perfect order before you apply.  Prepare your documents , follow these steps precisely, and you'll be set for a smooth, one-time approval.  Welcome to the Amazon Relay network. FAQs How Long Does It Take to Approve the Application?   Approval or rejection typically takes 1 to 3 weeks for U.S. carriers and 1 to 4 weeks for EU/UK carriers.   Why is my Application Delayed?   The most common reason for delays is the validation of your insurance information. Call your agent to ensure they responded to Amazon's verification request.   I Was Rejected. Can I Reapply?   If your rejection was for a resolvable issue like insurance coverage, authority status, or missing documents. If you were rejected for serious compliance issues, you may be disqualified from reapplying.   Do I Really Have to Wait 180 Days to Apply?   You can apply with a DOT number younger than 180 days, but your application will be held in a pending queue. You cannot be fully approved and onboarded until your authority has been active for 180 days.   I Was Approved, But I Can't Book Loads. Why?   After your company is approved, your drivers must also be onboarded. Each driver must submit a selfie, a photo of their driver's license, and pass a background check before they can haul loads.   Does Amazon Relay Accept Cargo Vans?   Cargo vans are explicitly not accepted. The program requires equipment like tractors (day cabs, sleepers), box trucks (16'/26' with lift-gates), and trailers (53'/48' dry van, reefer, etc.).   What is the Most-Missed Insurance Requirement?   The $50,000 trailer replacement coverage . This is a required part of your $1,000,000 Auto Liability policy and is often a non-standard endorsement you must specifically request from your agent.   I Never Heard Back After Applying. What Should I Do?   After 5 business days, first check that your contact information on your FMCSA profile exactly matches your application. If it does, you can contact Relay support at onboardwithrelay@amazon.com .   What if my company is in the UK or EU?   The requirements are completely different. UK carriers need a valid O-License, VAT number, and specific UK insurance (e.g., £1,200,000 Motor insurance). EU carriers need an EU Transport License.   Is there a minimum or maximum fleet size?   Amazon Relay has no fleet size requirements. You can apply with a single truck or a large fleet.

Your Amazon Relay scorecard is the most powerful tool controlling your business; it dictates when and how much work you can book .  A high score grants you "early access"  to bids and contract eligibility. Conversely, a low score severely restricts your load visibility and puts your entire account at risk.  This guide demystifies the strict "Weakest Link"  system and provides you with a strategic blueprint to master your metrics and maximize your freight access. How Your Overall Performance Score is Calculated The most critical thing to understand is that your overall score is not an average of your metrics .  Amazon's system uses a "Weakest Link" model: "A Relay carrier's performance score is only as good as their lowest performance metric". This design forces carriers to address their most problematic area.   The score isn't permanent;  it's calculated on a "trailing six weeks" of work. While your official score "refreshes every week," the most important tool on your portal is the "daily, real-time prediction" of your upcoming score.  Checking this daily is the best way to proactively identify your current "weakest link" and take action. Deep Dive into the "Big Four" Core Metrics Your overall grade is determined by four core performance metrics: On-Time, Acceptance, App usage, and Disruption-free .   Remember, this grade is based on the "Weakest Link" rule. Even if you have perfect scores in three of these categories, your one lowest score will become your entire grade.   Here is a deep dive into what each metric means and how it is tracked. On-Time Performance This is the "Ratio of loads that arrive by the planned arrival time"  at both the origin and destination.   This is a critical point. Your score is not  based on gate logs. It is calculated exclusively  from the " check-in timestamp at the site " that your driver makes using the Relay app.  If a driver arrives 10 minutes early but the app check-in is one minute late, the load is marked as late.   Acceptance This metric tracks " How often a carrier rejects tendered work, " with a target of 90% or higher.    It's crucial to know that letting work expire  is treated exactly the same as an active rejection and will hurt your score.    Furthermore, the penalty is not static; rejecting a load closer to its scheduled pick-up time will damage your score more than rejecting it 48 hours in advance.   App Usage This metric measures how effectively drivers adhere to the rules for the Relay app . To maintain a high score, drivers must "keep the app running and maintain location availability for the entire trip ," which is a mandatory requirement for Amazon's load tracking.  Failing to complete all app steps, such as check-ins and check-outs, will also lower this score.  Disruption-Free The Disruption-Free  score measures reliability by minimizing interruptions encountered during transit.  Amazon tracks two specific failures here:  "stationary trailers,"  where the system automatically flags a truck stopped for an extended, unexplained period.  And "loads without assigned drivers,"  which is a dispatcher-level failure resulting from not assigning a specific, vetted driver to the accepted load in the portal .  Successfully managing this metric relies on proactively completing driver assignments and ensuring continuous driver app usage for load tracking. What the Letters (A+ to F) Really Mean Your "Weakest Link"  percentage is converted into a letter grade. This grade dictates your access to freight. A+ / A (Top Performers: 98% - 99.9%+)  You get "early access" to the best bids and "priority matching" in Post A Truck. You see the best freight first.   B+ / B (Contract Eligible: 90% - 97.9%)  This is the most important tier. Like the B+ carrier in the screenshot, you are eligible for Amazon's short-term and long-term contracts. A "B" grade is the minimum requirement for contract work.   C+ / C (At Risk: 70% - 89.9%)  Falling to a "C" grade is a major penalty. You immediately lose eligibility for all contracts and "early access" to spot loads.   D / F (Critical: Below 70%)  At this level, your load access is severely limited, and your account is at high risk of warnings or suspension for poor performance. Your CSA/BASIC Safety Scores Your operational performance is only half the story. The Safety Status  tab acts as a mandatory pass/fail switch for your entire account, monitoring FMCSA safety data (CSA/BASIC scores) . Amazon's standards are stricter  than federal thresholds. You can be federally compliant, but still face suspension if your scores exceed Amazon's limits, regardless of your performance grade. You must maintain scores below these strict limits: Unsafe Driving & HOS Compliance:  Below 60% Vehicle Maintenance, Controlled Substances, & Driver Fitness:  Below 75% Driver Violation Rate  must also remain at or below 35%, and Vehicle Violation Rate  at or below 50% . Thorough pre- and post-trip inspections are critical , as they are your best defense against roadside violations that could push your safety scores above these thresholds and lead to immediate account suspension. How to Use the Portal to Improve Your Scorecard Success means constantly checking the "daily, real-time prediction"  to pinpoint your "weakest link" metric.  Coach your team using single load-level  data to prevent errors. Drivers must keep the app running for the entire trip and perform thorough inspections.   If a score is incorrect, file a performance dispute  via the web portal (not the app). For severe issues, like an F-grade or suspension, you must submit a formal Plan of Action (POA) to seek reinstatement. The Portal is Your Engine for Growth The Amazon Relay scorecard is your business's growth engine. Mastering the "Weakest Link"  rule and core metrics, alongside strict safety thresholds , secures profitable contracts and prime freight access. Consistent operational excellence is the only reliable path to stable work.  Don't let missed opportunities hold your business back. We are, a dedicated Amazon Relay Dispatch service.  We specialize in turning low scores into A+ performance by managing daily predictions, handling all disputes, and implementing driver coaching protocols. Book a Free Call  to discuss your current scorecard and learn how we can unlock maximum contract eligibility for your fleet. Frequently Asked Questions How is the overall Amazon Relay Performance Score calculated? Your score is dictated by the "Weakest Link"  rule, meaning it equals your single lowest metric among the four core categories. This forces carriers to maintain excellence across all areas.   What score is required to be eligible for Amazon Relay contracts? You must maintain a performance grade of "B" (90%) or higher  to be eligible for stable contracts and receive priority load access.   How is On-Time Performance (OTP) actually tracked? OTP is tracked exclusively  by the driver's check-in timestamp recorded using the Relay mobile app. Physical arrival time does not count if the app check-in is late.   How often does my performance score update? The official score refreshes every week , based on the trailing six weeks of work. However, the portal provides a crucial "daily, real-time prediction"  of the upcoming score.   What affects my Acceptance score besides rejecting loads? Letting work expire  is penalized equally to an active rejection. The penalty is also higher if the rejection is made closer to the scheduled pick-up time.   What is the most critical requirement for the App Usage metric? Drivers must keep the app running and maintain location availability for the entire trip . This ensures continuous load tracking and prevents disruption penalties.   What are Amazon's key safety score requirements? Amazon enforces strict FMCSA BASIC thresholds (e.g., Unsafe Driving below 60%  and Vehicle Maintenance below 75% ). Failing these standards risks immediate account suspension.

Stop staring at the load board all day. It is no fun, and you can miss a good load. What if the loads just came to you?  Amazon Relay has a tool called "Post A Truck" . It acts like your own helper, finding work that fits your schedule.  This guide will show you how over 20,000 carriers have booked more than 1 million loads  using PAT. What is "Post A Truck" (PAT) Think about the normal Load Board. It is a big list with thousands of jobs. You must watch the board all day and search for a good load.   Post A Truck (PAT) works the other way. You post your truck's plan, and the work finds you. This gives you  More Control . You tell PAT your schedule, your equipment, and the payout you want. The system then finds a match.  This is called Automatic Booking . When a load matches your post, Relay books it for you.   It also gives you Flexibility . It saves your old searches and learns what you like to suggest future loads. Best of all, PAT gives you "early access" to loads before they are on the regular load board. 3 Ways to Post A Truck Posting a Truck is simple. Go to the "Loadboard" on your computer or in the Relay mobile app and click "Post A Truck" . You have three ways to start :   Start from scratch:  Build a new post for your truck's needs.   Recommendations:  Uses info from your past loads for a higher chance of matching.   Saved searches:  Reuse a search template for a lane you run all the time.   Easy 4-Step Guide to Creating Your First "Post A Truck" Order Posting your truck is easy and is done in 4 easy steps. Let's walk through them: Step 1: Choose Your Order Type  This is the first section you fill out. It tells Amazon what kind of truck you have and the type of work you want. Order Type:  Choose "Power only," "Box truck," or "Tractor & Trailer." Work:  Pick "Blocks" (for local work) or "One-Way/Round Trip." Equipment: If you choose "Power only," you will then select your equipment from a list. This includes options like "53' Trailer," "20' Container," "40' Container," and many others. Driver:  Select "Solo" or "Team."    Step 2: Set Your Location   This step is all about your route. You tell the system where you are and where you want to go. Origin:  Put in your "Pick-up" location. Radius:  Add a "Radius" (like "50 miles") to show how far you are willing to drive to the pick-up. Remember that the  "Radius" is in air miles , not road miles. This means 50 air miles might be a longer drive on the road. Step 3: Set Your Schedule   Now you tell the system when your truck is free. This is a very important step. First, you enter the "Start date"  and "Start time" . This is the earliest you can start.   Then, you enter the "End date"  and "End time" . This is the latest time you are available to work.   Block Length:  Since you chose "Blocks" in Step 1, you will see "Block Length"  here. You will pick the total time for your block, like "13 hr" or "1 day 13 hr".   Drivers:  Finally, you can pick a specific "Driver"  from your list. If you choose a driver, the job will be sent right to their Relay app after it is matched. Look for the optional "Start Time Window" . This new feature lets you set a smaller, preferred time to start. This is a great tool to help you avoid bad traffic.   Step 4: Set Your Payout This is the final and most crucial step, informing Amazon of your desired payment amount. Min payout:  In this box, you will enter the lowest all-in price you are willing to take for the load. Put a minimum payout for the base rate only. Do not include estimated accessorials costs . This means you should only put the base rate, not extra costs like fuel or tolls.   Review the "Match Outlook" Once you have filled out all 4 steps, you must look at the "Match Outlook"  box on the side of the screen. It tells you if your chance of getting a match is "High, Medium, or Low"  based on loads from the past 6 weeks.  This is your key to knowing if your post will be successful. The "Block Order" Feature You saw the "Blocks" option back in Step 1 . This is a great choice for local work, and here is why it is special. The best part about a "Block" is that it is paid in full , even if Amazon does not have enough loads to fill your whole time. If you post a "13 hr" block, you are paid for 13 hours.   This type of order is perfect for local jobs because the trips are designed to start and end at the same location .   But Blocks have 3 special rules you must follow: You Must Plan Ahead:  You have to post a "Block" at least 54 hours  before the start time. You cannot post one for the next day.   You Must Be Available:  Your driver and truck must be free for the entire block of time you posted.   You Get Details Later:  You will not see the exact trip details right away. Amazon sends you the "tour details" about 15 hours  before your block starts. Boost Your Matches with "Linked Orders" You might see a box on the side of the page for "Linked Orders". This is a very smart tool.   What if you are not sure which post will get a match? Linked Orders lets you connect up to 3 different posts  together for the same truck and driver.   Here is the best part: You can link three posts, but only one of them can be booked . As soon as one of your posts gets a match, the other two are automatically cancelled . This is the perfect way to prevent overbooking!   You can use this to try different options at the same time: Try Different Prices:  Post a trip to Atlanta at $3.60/mile and link it to a trip to Dallas at $3.90/mile.   Try Different Trip Types:  Link a "Block" post and a "One-Way" post. The system will book whichever matches first.   Try Overlapping Times:  Link a post for 6AM - 7PM with one for 10AM - 10PM to cover your schedule. Let the Work Find You Now you have all the steps and pro-tips to master   "Post A Truck." You do not have to watch the load board 24/7 anymore. Think of PAT as your free, automated dispatcher  that works for you even when you are on the road.  By using features like "Match Outlook," "Block Orders,"  and  "Linked Orders,"  you can stop searching for work and let the work find you.   FAQs 1. How do I pick a good "Radius" for my post?   A good trick is to check the regular load board first. If you see many loads available within 25 miles of your origin, you can start by setting your radius to 25 miles.   2. What is "Stem Time" and how do I choose it?   "Stem time " is the minimum time you need to get from your current location to the first pick-up. You should choose it based on your radius, traffic, and any extra buffer time your driver needs.   3. When is the best time to post my truck?   You can post up to two weeks in advance, or you can post for right now. Posting early gives you the  first chance   to match   a load  at the price you want.   4. What if my truck is no longer available? Can I cancel a post?   You can cancel a post as long as it is still "open."  If the post has already been matched to a load, you must "reject" the work, which will result in performance penalties.   5. How will I know if my post gets a match?   You will get a "match notification email"  sent to the email address you have on file.   6. Why isn't my post getting any matches?   There are two main reasons: demand and performance . First, there may not be a demand that fits your post. Second, matches are based on performance grade. High-performing carriers get their orders matched first. To improve your chances, post early, be flexible, and maintain a high performance grade.   7. What if I get a load that is outside my posted criteria?   If you are matched with a load that you believe is outside your criteria, you should reject the load immediately . After you reject it, file a dispute.

The Amazon Relay load board is a powerful tool, but with thousands of loads, just scrolling is a waste of your time.   The difference between a break-even week and a highly profitable one isn't luck;  it's strategy . This simple guide breaks down the  essential filters . Learn to stop searching and start hauling the profitable freight you actually want Your Starting Amazon Relay Filters Before you can find the perfect load, you have to clear away the noise . These four filters are the non-negotiable first steps for every single search on the load board.   Origin, Destination, and Pickup Radius  This is your basic "where and when."  Tell Amazon Relay where your truck is (Origin)  and where you want to go (Destination) .  The Pickup Radius  is your first defense against unpaid miles. It controls how far you're willing to drive from your origin to get to the pickup. A tight radius keeps your deadhead low.   Equipment Type   This is the most important filter. Don't waste a single click  looking at loads you can't legally or physically haul.  The Equipment Type filter lets you see only the freight that matches your truck.   Power-only:  Select this if you are only providing the tractor (the "power unit"). This is the classic Amazon drop-and-hook model where Amazon provides the trailer, which is often pre-loaded and ready to go. This is built for speed, just hook up and roll. You can then specify which of Amazon's trailers you can pull (e.g., 53' Trailer, 53' Reefer, various containers).   26' Box Truck:  Select this for a 16' or 26' straight truck. Pay close attention to the requirement listed right on the filter: "Dock height and lift gate required."  These loads are often for "middle-mile" runs, like moving freight from an Amazon sort center to a post office.   Tractor & Trailer:  Select this if you are bringing both your own tractor and your own trailer (like your own 53' Dry Van or Reefer). As the filter notes, this is typically for "live loads," where you may have to wait to be loaded or unloaded, unlike the power-only model. Load Type Filter  Directly related to your equipment choice, this filter defines how you'll be loaded and unloaded. Live:  This means you will wait at the facility to be loaded or unloaded. This is common if you selected "Tractor & Trailer." Drop and hook:  This is the "fast" option. You'll drop your empty trailer (if you have one) and hook up to a pre-loaded one. This is the standard for most "Power only" work and is key to maximizing your efficiency. Price / Payout (min) Filter  This is your first and most important profitability check. Don't waste time looking at cheap freight. You can set your minimums before you even see a load. Price/mile (min):  Sets the lowest rate per mile you're willing to accept. Payout (min):  Sets the lowest total dollar amount you'll take for a load, regardless of the per-mile rate. Amazon Relay Filters for Your Schedule and Strategy Once you've told Relay what truck you have,  it's time to find loads that fit your business plan .  These filters are where you build your strategy and tell Amazon Relay how you want to work . Work Type (The Strategy Filter) One of the most powerful filters is its ability to control the "shape"  of your trip. One-Way/Round Trip:  This is your most common filter for over-the-road freight. One-Way:  A standard A-to-B load. It's perfect for building your own routes, but you'll need to find your own load home.   Round-trip:  A carrier's best friend. This books a complete trip that starts and ends in the same city area, guaranteeing you a paid return leg and getting your driver home.   Block:  This is for consistent, local work. Instead of a single load, you reserve a "block" of time (like 13 hours) for Amazon. They then assign you a series of local tours that start and end in the same place.   Hostler/Shuttle:  This is different from a standard load. This work typically involves moving trailers within an Amazon facility yard (a "yard hostler") or shuttling them between very close facilities.  Driver Type Filters This filter ensures the load matches your driver's availability and  Hours of Service (HOS) requirements . Solo:  Filters for loads designed for a single driver's Hours of Service. Team:  Shows loads that require two drivers to keep the truck moving on long-haul or high-urgency routes. Scheduling Filters You’ve told Relay what you're driving. Now, use these scheduling filters to control how and when you work. Trip Length:  Lets you filter by the total time of the trip, not just miles. This is perfect for finding a quick load to fill a gap in your schedule.   Maximum Number of Stops:  Want to keep it simple? Use this to show only loads with one or two stops and filter out complex multi-stop routes.   Desired Layout / Shift Length:  This is a powerful scheduling tool. You can filter for specific, pre-defined work shifts, like a "13-hour shift," to perfectly match your driver's available hours.   Using the Exclude Filter To help you clean up your search results, the load board provides an Exclude filter. You can use this to add up to three specific cities you want to avoid . Any load that has a stop in one of those cities will be hidden, allowing you to focus only on the routes you want. The "Certifications" Filter This is an important filter if you have specialized access or qualifications . These loads often have less competition. If you are certified to enter specific types of facilities, this filter is your key to unlocking that freight. What it is:  This filter shows you loads that require special certifications to pick up or deliver. How to use it: Railroad:  If your business is certified for intermodal work, you can select specific rail yards like BNSF , CSX , NS , or UP to find drayage loads. Others:  This section can include certifications for other specialized work, such as hauling for Ocean carriers or using specific Chassis providers for port loads. The "Set It and Forget It" Alternative: 'Post A Truck' If you are tired of refreshing the load board, use the  Post A Truck feature .   Instead of searching for loads, you tell Amazon Relay when and where your truck is available   and your minimum payout .  Amazon's system then automatically books a matching load for you, often before it even hits the public board.   One Critical Warning:  The booking is automatic and instant. Only post availability for a truck you know is free, or you risk getting double-booked and penalized. Filters Are Your Key to Profitability Mastering the Amazon Relay filters is the first step to building a profitable business . It's how you stop scrolling and start seeing only the loads that matter to you. But finding the right load is only half the battle; booking it, managing it, and ensuring perfect, on-time performance is a full-time job. Stop Searching. Start Driving. Tired of staring at the load board? Let our expert dispatchers handle the hunt for you. We utilize strategies to secure high-paying loads that align with your schedule. Book a free consultation call today

You're an owner-operator, you see Amazon Relay trucks everywhere, and you're wondering one thing: how much can you actually make driving for the Amazon Relay program? The potential is huge , but the numbers vary widely. Based on aggregated salary data, here’s a quick look at the annual gross revenue you could be looking at as an owner-operator on the platform. Earning Tier Annual Gross Revenue Low-End (25th Percentile) $125,000  Average $228,575   High-End (75th Percentile) $340,000  Top Earners $385,000+  Now, before you get too excited about those top-tier numbers, remember that these figures are gross revenue . This is the total amount of money your truck brings in before you pay for fuel, insurance, maintenance, and all the other costs of running your business . Think of it as your starting point. The final amount you take home depends heavily on your strategy and, most importantly,  the type of truck you're driving . Amazon Relay Earnings by Equipment Your earning potential is directly tied to the type of truck you operate.  A sleeper cab running long-haul routes will have a different revenue stream than a box truck  doing local deliveries. Here’s the average gross revenue  you can expect based on your truck type: Truck Type Average Annual Gross Revenue Typical Work Sleeper Cab $228,575 Long-haul, multi-day trips, and contracts Day Cab $177,696 Regional and local power-only loads, often home daily Box Truck (26') $114,472 Local freight, often involving late-night runs to post offices As you can see, sleeper cabs have the highest gross revenue potential, while day cabs offer a great balance for drivers who want to be home more often. From Gross Pay to Net Profit Those big revenue numbers are exciting, but they aren't what you put in the bank. To find your actual profit, you have to know your Cost Per Mile (CPM) , the single most important number for any owner-operator. According to the American Transportation Research Institute (ATRI ), the average cost to operate a truck in 2025 was $2.26 per mile . If a load pays less than your CPM , you're losing money. How to Boost Your Amazon Relay Profit Making good money on Amazon Relay is all about strategy. You need to beat that average CPM. Here’s how: Be a Smart Dispatcher:  As an owner-operator, you are your own dispatcher. Book smart by using the "Post A Truck"  feature, which lets Relay's algorithm automatically book loads that match your criteria. This saves you from constantly watching the load board.   Master Your Performance Score :  A high score is your golden ticket. It unlocks access to better-paying, consistent contract work that most drivers never see. Stay on time, every time.   Use a Hybrid Strategy:  Don't rely only on the spot market. Use contracts to cover your fixed costs, then "cherry-pick" high-margin spot loads to boost your weekly profit.   Cut Your Costs:  Lowering your CPM is pure profit. Use Amazon's discount programs for fuel, tires, and maintenance to keep more money in your pocket. Is Amazon Relay a Good Deal? The key is to treat Amazon like your biggest customer, not your boss. Their platform is a system with clear rules, and the owner-operators who win are the ones who learn to master it .  In this high-volume game, profitability comes from strategy, not just from driving. The Good: Weekly Pay:  Unbeatable cash flow.   Endless Freight:  Always work available.   No Broker Fees:  Keep more of the rate.   The Bad: Cheap Spot Loads:  Intense competition drives rates down.   Tough Performance Score:  A bad score locks you out of the best loads.   The top earners on Relay aren't just driving;  they're strategizing. They master the performance system to secure the best-paying contract work, leaving the low-paying spot market behind. Our clients are those top earners. If you're ready to maximize your revenue, let our Amazon Relay Top Tier Dispatch Management  handle the strategy so you can focus on driving.

Take a look at this map. The I-95 / I-78 corridor in Pennsylvania and New Jersey is the most saturated Amazon Relay freight zone in the United States. It's the beating heart of their entire East Coast network . But for an owner-operator, it’s also a trap. New carriers go broke here every day. They see a board full of loads, but they also see crippling tolls , nightmare traffic , and intense competition . So, can you actually be  profitable running Amazon Relay in PA/NJ ? Why the PA/NJ Corridor Trips Up Carriers Before we get to the solution, we have to be honest about the challenges. If you ignore these four factors, you will not be profitable . This is why most carriers fail. Toll Trap Driving between Amazon PA & NJ hubs involves high tolls ($30-$100+) on Turnpikes and Delaware River bridges, especially westbound into PA . Amazon's rate should  cover tolls, but you must verify the exact cost  for your run or risk losing profit. Traffic Trap PA/NJ routes like I-95, I-78, and I-76 face severe congestion , especially during rush hours (7-9 AM, 3-7 PM) . Traffic can easily double or triple travel time , slashing your Revenue-per-Hour  and wasting HOS. Avoiding peak times is crucial for profit. The CPM (Cents-Per-Mile) Trap The biggest mistake new carriers make is chasing CPM. A short haul at $2.50/mile can earn less than a long haul at $2.00/mile. Smart carriers focus on revenue per hour, not cents per mile. The Competition With thousands of loads come thousands of carriers. Competition for easy freight drives spot rates down , and if you just watch the board, you’ll be stuck fighting for scraps. The Winning NJ/PA Loads Strategies The "Profit Killers" – tolls, traffic, and low spot rates – only defeat carriers who approach the PA/NJ corridor with the wrong mindset.  Stop thinking in Cents-per-Mile (CPM) and start calculating your Revenue-per-Hour. You achieve this by using the map's incredible density to your advantage. Density & The Hub-to-Hub Strategy Understand the battlefield. The PA/NJ region is organized into dense "Hubs"  or "Clusters" . Cluster Name Region / Main Cities Map Color Notes North/Central NJ (EWR/LGA/TEB Cluster) Avenel, Edison, Carteret 🔴 Red Dominates NE New Jersey and NYC metro. Lehigh Valley, PA (ABE/RDG Cluster) Allentown, Easton, Hamburg (and AVP Scranton/Hazleton coverage) 🔵 Blue The I-78 corridor super-hub — also covers AVP area implicitly. South NJ / Philly (ACY/TEB3 Cluster) Swedesboro, Burlington 🟢 Green Serves the greater Philadelphia metro area. Central PA (MDT Cluster) Carlisle, Harrisburg 🟣 Purple Cross-state connector via I-76/I-81. Western PA (PIT Cluster) Pittsburgh region (off-map) ⚫ Gray (Off-Map) Represented only in text, not shown visually. The winning strategy is "Hub-to-Hub."  Your goal is to Minimize Deadhead . You only book loads that move you from one hot zone (Hub) to another, ensuring you can immediately pick up your next paid load. Revenue-per-Hour is King In this short-haul market, CPM is a trap. A $3.00/mile load that takes 5 hours due to traffic is worse than a $5.00/mile load you can complete in 2 hours. Your only true metric is Net Revenue-per-Hour . Revenue-per-Hour: (Payout - Tolls - Fuel Estimate) / Total Time (Dock-to-Dock) = Your Real Profitability Proving the Trips with Real Data Based on data from thousands of actual PA/NJ Amazon Relay loads, applying the right calculation pinpoints the truly profitable strategies: Strategy 1: The "Hub-to-Hub Loop" (ABE <-> EWR).  This is the workhorse loop along I-78. Average Outbound (PA -> NJ):  ~$305 Payout, ~4.4 Hours Average Return (NJ -> PA):  ~$371 Payout, ~3.65 Hours Total Tolls (Round Trip):  ~$83 (Paid mostly Westbound) Total Net Payout (8-Hour Loop):  ~$594 Net Profitability:   ~$74 per hour Strategy 2: The "Intra-Hub Block" (ACY -> ACY).  This involves staying within one cluster, perfect for local drivers with Box Trucks. Average Block:  ~$320 Payout, ~4 Hours Total Tolls (Local):  ~$0 - $10 Net Profitability:   ~$79 per hour Strategy 3: The "North-South Reposition" (ACY -> EWR)  Moving between South and North NJ hubs. Average Payout:  ~$307 Payout, ~4.25 Hours Total Tolls (NJ Turnpike):  ~$48 Net Profitability:   ~$62 per hour The most profitable, repeatable strategies are the ABE <-> EWR loop (netting ~$74/hr)  and the ACY Intra-Hub Block (netting ~$79/hr) . Both rely on minimizing deadhead and maximizing time efficiency, completely ignoring the misleading CPM metric. The "Home Daily" Advantage This strategy works best for drivers living in or between the major hubs. Best Cities:  Allentown, Bethlehem, Easton (for ABE); Edison, Avenel, Carteret (for EWR); Swedesboro, Burlington (for ACY); or strategically between them like Bridgewater or Phillipsburg. Living close minimizes unpaid "stem time" to your first pickup. How to Find These Loads: Filter Settings You need to tell the load board exactly what you're looking for. Use these filters: The "Hub-to-Hub Loop" Filter Origin:  ALLENTOWN, PA (or your starting hub) Radius:  75 (Crucial - Captures the whole cluster) Equipment:  Power only, 53' Trailer Load type:  CHECK Drop and hook  ( MANDATORY  - Avoids delays) Price/mile (min):  $0.00 ( IGNORE THIS TRAP ) Payout (min):  $225 (Your REAL filter - Filters out low value) Trip duration (Hours):  Max: 6 (Finds stackable, half-day runs) The "Intra-Hub Block" Filter Origin:  SWEDESBORO, NJ (or your local hub) Radius:  75 Destination:  SWEDESBORO, NJ (Set Destination = Origin) Work type:  CHECK Block Load type:  CHECK Drop and hook Payout (min):  $200 Trip duration (Hours):  Min: 3 / Max: 8 (Finds a good shift length) 4 Criteria for a Good PA/NJ Load Quickly find profitable loads by checking these points: High Net Revenue-per-Hour:  Calculate (Payout - Tolls) / Total Time. Aim for $70+. Ignore CPM. Drop & Hook Only:  Filter out Live loads to maximize efficiency and avoid delays. Hub-to-Hub Destination:  Ensure the load ends in a major cluster (EWR, ABE, ACY, MDT) to eliminate deadhead and find your next load quickly. Smart Timing:  Avoid pickups/drop-offs during peak I-78/I-95 traffic (7-9 AM, 3-6 PM) to protect your HOS and hourly rate. A good load maximizes earnings per hour and positions you strategically for the next paid run. The Results So, can you be profitable running Amazon Relay in the PA/NJ corridor? As the data shows, profitability in this market it's about strategy . It's not about finding one mythical "golden load."  It's about consistently using the incredible density of the Amazon network to your advantage. The carrier who fails is the one stuck in the "CPM Trap,"  complaining about $1.94/mile  while burning unpaid deadhead miles. The carrier who succeeds focuses on Revenue-per-Hour . They leverage the Hub-to-Hub  strategy, using smart filters to build profitable loops like the ABE <-> EWR  corridor (netting ~$74/hour) or locking in ACY Intra-Hub Blocks  (netting ~$79/hour). Profitability here is a system built on: Prioritizing Net Revenue-Per-Hour , not Cents-Per-Mile. Using the "Hub-to-Hub" density to eliminate deadhead miles . Choosing the right strategy for your equipment (Tractor loops vs. Box Truck blocks). Mastering the Amazon Performance Score  to gain "early access" to the best loads before the competition. Stop Guessing. Profit Locally & Be Home Daily. Stop trying to solve the local/regional puzzle  alone. Our Amazon Relay Dispatch Services specializes  in building profitable local routes that get you home daily .  A key factor in securing these high-paying routes is your Performance Score, as it unlocks priority access. See precisely how improving your score can directly boost your annual profit with our simulator below: We focus on local and regional  strategies to maximize your earnings. We know the hubs, factor in the tolls, and build stacked loops that turn your truck into a local revenue machine, netting $70+/hour. Ready to turn your local runs into a predictable, profitable business?  Book a Free Consultation Call!

Managing your drivers in the Amazon Relay portal is pretty easy! Think of this as the simple instruction manual  for your drivers. We’ll walk you through how to add a new driver, how to put them on a load, and what to do if they leave. Let’s learn how to manage your drivers the right way so you can keep your scores high and your trucks full! Who's Who in Your Amazon Relay Account? To manage your team in Amazon Relay, you first need to know who's who. Amazon Relay is built for this, splitting everyone into two main groups.  It lets you give different "roles" to your team, and it's super important to know the difference. Site User:  This is the main category for your "office team", everyone who uses the Amazon Relay web portal. This group includes all your Administrators , Dispatchers , and Owner-Operators. Driver:  This role is just for your drivers. They can only  use the mobile app to see the trips you give them. They can't see your money or book their own loads. This guide will show you, as the Administrator, how to manage all of your "Drivers." It's important to know that removing a 'Site User'  is not the same as removing a 'Driver' How to Add a New Driver (Onboarding) Before a driver can take a load, you need to invite them to your team. You will do this from the Amazon Relay web portal (not the app). Log in to your Amazon Relay account. Go to the "Manage Resources"  section. Click on "Driver Roster." Find and click the big "Add Driver"  button. Type in the driver’s email address and pick their location. Click "Send Invite." What Your Driver Does Next Your part is done, but your driver has homework! They will get an email. They must  open it and follow the steps to: Download the Relay app Verify their ID (take a selfie and a picture of their driver's license) Pass a background check Finish any training videos While your driver is doing this, their status will show as "Pending."  Tell them to check their email (and spam folder!) . If they get stuck, they probably missed a step. Once they finish everything, their status will change to "Active,"  and they are ready for a load! How to Put Your Driver on a Load Once your driver is "Active," you can give them a job. From your Relay dashboard, go to the "Trips"  page. Find the upcoming trip you want to assign. (It might have an orange icon, which means it needs attention!) Click on the trip. Look for the "Assign driver"  dropdown menu. Click it and choose your driver's name from the list. That's it! The trip information is now sent right to your driver's Relay app. Need to change drivers?  Easy. Just go back into the trip, click the "X"  next to the driver's name to unassign them, and then pick a new driver from the list. How to Manage Your Full Driver List Your "Driver Roster" page is your main control center. It shows you every driver and their status. Here’s what the most important statuses mean: Eligible:  The driver is approved and ready for loads. Ineligible:  The driver is still on your team but is "paused." Use this if your driver is on vacation or a short leave. You can make them "Eligible"  again at any time. Want to see more about one driver?  Just click on their blue name. This opens their full "Driver Details" page . Here, you can check everything about them: You can see their Driver Details  (like their CDL Class and License Number). You can check their Identity verification  to see that it "Passed." You can also see if they agreed to the "Facial recognition consent." What to Do When a Driver Leaves (Offboarding) When a driver quits or is fired, you need to remove them from your account. This is super important for your company's security. You have two choices: Make them "Ineligible":  This is the best choice for a temporary leave (like a vacation or leave of absence). It "pauses" their account. You can make them "Eligible" again instantly when they come back. "Delete User":  This is for permanent removal. The driver is gone for good. BIG WARNING: Deleting a user is final! You cannot undo it. If you delete a driver and they later want to return, they must go through the entire new-driver process again (ID check, background check, and all). Grow Your Team the Smart Way And that's it! Now you're a pro at managing your drivers in the Amazon Relay portal, from inviting them to their very first load. Managing the drivers you have is one part of the job. But what about finding new drivers to grow your business? Finding quality drivers and owner-operators is hard work. That's where the Amazon Relay Recruitment Team   can help. We do more than just manage; we help you build. We are experts at expanding your fleet by finding quality drivers and owner-operators  to join your team.  More great drivers mean you can book more loads and grow your business. FAQs My driver is "Pending" and stuck. What's wrong?   This almost always means they missed a step. Ask your driver to log back into their Relay app. They will see a task they need to finish, like taking a selfie, agreeing to the background check, or watching a video. How long does it take for a new driver to get approved?   After your driver finishes all their tasks, it usually takes 2-5 business days for Amazon to do the background check and approve them. Can I add a driver back after I deleted them?   You have to send a brand new invitation, and they must do the entire process all over again (ID check, background check, etc.). It's much better to use the "Ineligible"  status if you think they might come back. What's the difference between a "Driver" and an "Administrator"?   A Driver  can only use the mobile app to see and run the loads you give them. An Administrator  has full power in the web portal to book loads, add users, and see payments. How do I change a driver's status from "Eligible" to "Ineligible"?   Go to your "Driver Roster"  list. Find the driver, and click the three dots (...) on the far right of their name. A menu will pop up. From there, you can change their status to "Ineligible." This is perfect for when they go on vacation, as it will stop them from appearing as an option when you assign loads.

Managing your team on Amazon Relay involves adding and removing different types of  "Site Users."  This includes not just drivers, but also the dispatchers and administrators who help manage your operations .  The process for removing a user is straightforward, but the implications can vary depending on their role.  Taking a few preparatory steps is important to protect your performance score  and ensure a smooth transition when deleting a Site User, especially when removing a driver. This guide will walk you through the exact steps to delete a Site User  and highlight the critical factors you must consider before you click "delete." Before Deleting Sites Users Permanently Managing Site Users in the Amazon Relay portal requires understanding the difference between temporary and permanent actions.  Use the "Inactive"  status to temporarily suspend a user's access for situations like a leave of absence; their profile is saved, and access can be restored instantly. This is the best option for non-permanent departures. The "Delete User"  function is a final, irreversible action. Before deleting any user, ensure you reassign their duties, recover company assets, and revoke all system access to protect your operations. Removing a Site User in the Relay Portal This is an administrative task that must be done on the Amazon Relay web portal, not the mobile app. Log In to the Amazon Relay Website Go to relay.amazon.com  and sign in with your carrier account credentials. Navigate to User Management On the portal, go to your "Carrier Account"  and then select "Site User."  This section allows you to manage who has access to your account. Locate and Delete the User Find the specific user you wish to remove from the list. Select their profile , and you will see an option to "Delete User." Confirm the Action:  A confirmation prompt will appear to prevent accidental deletion. Confirm the removal to finalize the process. The Site User will now be permanently removed from your active roster.    Important Things to Consider Before Deleting a Site User Simply deleting a user without a proper off-boarding plan can create security risks and operational disruptions . Before you complete the steps above, run through this essential checklist. Ensure a Smooth Handover of Responsibilities: Before removing a user, make sure their ongoing tasks are properly transferred. For a dispatcher, this means documenting and handing over knowledge of current loads, client contacts, and route plans. If the user is a driver, you must reassign all their active and upcoming loads to prevent service failures that will damage your Carrier Performance Score (CPS).    Secure Your Account and Company Assets: Immediately revoking access is a critical security measure. On the user's last day, disable their logins to the Relay portal, email, and any other company systems to prevent unauthorized access. Be sure to also recover all company property, such as laptops, phones, ID badges, and fuel cards.    Understand the Impact and Finality of Deletion: Removing a user is permanent; there is no "reactivate" button. If you need to bring that person back, they must go through the entire onboarding process again, which can take several days. Furthermore, if the user was a driver, their performance history remains tied to your account's score until it ages out of the calculation window. Deleting them prevents future issues, but does not retroactively fix your CPS.    By following these steps and considerations, you can manage your team effectively while protecting your carrier account's health and standing within the Amazon Relay network. Smart User Management is Smart Business Effectively managing your Site Users on Amazon Relay is more than just an administrative task; it's a core part of protecting your business .  By following the correct steps for removal and, more importantly, completing the pre-removal checklist, you ensure operational continuity, secure your company's assets, and safeguard your all-important Carrier Performance Score .  A thoughtful offboarding process maintains a professional relationship and, ultimately, helps keep your carrier account in good standing, ensuring your continued access to the Amazon Relay network . Having trouble managing Users and Drivers? Amazon Relay Dispatch  can help you streamline operations, stay compliant, and protect your performance score. Book a free consultation . Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 1. Can I just deactivate a user temporarily instead of deleting them?   You can set a user's status to "Inactive" to temporarily suspend their access, which is ideal for a leave of absence. This action is reversible. The "Delete User" option, however, is permanent. 2. Can I re-add a user after I've deleted them?   They must go through the entire new user onboarding process again. This is not a simple reactivation and often requires a new email address, taking several business days to complete.   3. How long does it take for a new user to become active?   It typically takes a few business days. After you send an invitation, the user must complete their profile, verify their identity, and pass any required background checks before they are fully active.   4. What's the main difference between an Administrator and a Driver user?   An Administrator manages business settings, users, and finances on the Relay web portal. A Driver user primarily uses the mobile app to execute assigned loads, follow navigation, and update trip status. 5. Who do I contact for help with account issues?   For general account issues, submit a case through the "Support Center"  in the Relay web portal. For urgent problems with a live, in-transit load, contact the 24/7 Relay Operations Center (ROC) through the app or portal.

An Amazon Relay Plan of Action (POA)  is a formal appeal submitted to Amazon after your Relay account is suspended or deactivated  due to performance, compliance, or safety issues. Your POA must clearly explain what caused the problem , what actions you’ve taken to fix it , and what steps you’ll take to prevent it from happening again . A strong POA is clear, professional, and specific , using bullet points, supporting evidence, and showing accountability. Understand the Problem Demonstrating to Amazon that you have a complete and honest understanding of the situation is the foundation of a successful appeal. Read Amazon’s suspension notice carefully:  Identify the exact reason for the suspension (for example, missed loads, late deliveries, safety violations, or performance score issues). Avoid guessing or addressing unrelated issues. Find the root cause:  Determine what led to the problem. For example, if your on-time performance dropped, explain whether it was due to mechanical failures, staffing issues, or dispatch mismanagement. Structure Your Amazon Relay Plan of Action (POA) Organize your appeal into the following distinct sections to present your case clearly and professionally. Introduction:  Start with a short statement acknowledging the issue and taking full responsibility. Show professionalism and willingness to correct the problem. Root Cause(s):  Clearly list the specific reasons the issue occurred. Be detailed and factual. Corrective Actions:  Outline the immediate steps you’ve already taken to resolve the issue, such as retraining drivers, fixing scheduling errors, or improving communication with dispatch. Preventive Measures:  Describe what long-term changes you’ll implement to ensure it doesn’t happen again (for example, adding new tracking systems, enforcing driver check-ins, or creating backup plans for load coverage). Evidence:  Include supporting proof when possible, maintenance logs, delivery records, driver training documents, or screenshots from Relay showing improved performance. Additional Supporting Information (Optional but Recommended) If relevant to your case, include details that strengthen your appeal and demonstrate long-term reliability: Performance Improvements:  Provide data or results that show your performance has improved since the issue (e.g., on-time rate, canceled load reduction, or improved response times). Safety and Compliance Commitment:  Highlight actions that reinforce safety, such as regular driver training, DOT compliance checks, or installing dashcams and telematics systems. Communication and Collaboration:  Explain how you’ve improved communication with Amazon operations, such as assigning a dedicated dispatcher, offering 24/7 contact availability, or setting up early issue reporting procedures. These additions show Amazon that you take responsibility seriously and are committed to being a dependable partner. Writing and Submission Tips for the POA How you present your POA is just as important as the information it contains. Be clear and concise:  Keep your POA short and easy to read. Use bullet points instead of long paragraphs. Focus on solutions:  Spend most of your POA explaining what you’ve done to fix the issue and how you’ll prevent it in the future. Submit through the proper channel:  Send your POA via the link or email provided in the Relay suspension notice (usually a “Submit Appeal” or “Contact Support” option in the Relay portal). Be patient and professional:  After you submit your POA, Amazon will review it and respond with approval or feedback. If rejected, revise and resubmit with more detail or evidence. Make the process easier, download our free Amazon Relay POA template ,  and start building your response today. Need Help with Your POA? If you're struggling to craft a convincing Plan of Action or feeling overwhelmed by the process, you don't have to do it alone. An effective appeal can be the difference between a quick reinstatement and a prolonged business disruption. Book a free, no-obligation call with our experts today.  We can help you analyze your suspension, identify the root causes, and build a powerful POA designed to get your Amazon Relay account reactivated . Frequently Asked Questions (POA) 1. How long does Amazon take to respond to a POA?  Response times vary but typically range from a few days to a week. Avoid sending multiple follow-ups, as this can delay the process. 2. What should I do if my POA is rejected?  Carefully read Amazon's feedback to understand what was missing. Revise your POA with more specific details or stronger evidence and resubmit it through the proper channel. 3. Do I really have to admit fault? Taking full responsibility for the issue is non-negotiable. Amazon needs to see accountability, not excuses, to trust you as a partner. 4. How long should my POA be?  Aim to keep it on a single page. Use bullet points and concise language to make it easy for the Amazon team to review quickly. 5. Can I use a template I found online?  It's not recommended. While a template can guide your structure, your POA must be customized to your specific situation. Generic POAs are easily spotted and often rejected. 6. What is the most important part of the POA?  The "Preventive Measures" section is the most critical. This is where you prove to Amazon that you have implemented lasting solutions to ensure the problem will not happen again. 7. What if I don't have physical evidence to submit?  If you don't have documents like logs or records, clearly explain the new processes  you have implemented. For example, describe a new mandatory driver check-in policy or dispatch communication system.

Think of Amazon Relay like a game with two sets of rules. You have Amazon's own report card, grading you on performance.  You need to follow important safety rules that the government makes and that Amazon checks.  If you don’t follow these rules, you could get a bad grade ('F') and not be   able to work. In some cases, you might even be banned   for good . To keep your business winning, you have to play smart, and that starts with knowing the rules inside and out. What Happens When Your Score Drops to 'F' A low score, especially an 'F', is a serious problem for your business.  It’s not just a bad grade; it triggers real penalties that can stop your income. You Lose Access to Good Freight:  A low score puts you last in line for spot loads, steady work, and contracts, often leaving you with the less desirable jobs other carriers have already passed on. Your Account Can Be Suspended or Banned:  If your performance doesn’t improve, Amazon can suspend your account immediately, cutting off your access to the load board and Relay income. Staying at an ‘F’ for a month can lead to a permanent ban , a serious hit for any business relying on Amazon work. Why a High Score is Your Most Valuable Asset Your Amazon Relay performance score  it's the key that unlocks the best and most profitable work on the platform. Keeping your score high means you get  better jobs  and  build a stronger business . Get First Pick of the Best Loads:  The Amazon load board is like a VIP list. Carriers with high scores get to see and book the best loads first, especially during busy times like holidays and Prime week.   Unlock Steady Work with Contracts:  The most reliable jobs, called contracts, are only available to carriers who keep a 'B' grade or higher. A good score is your ticket to more predictable income.   Receive Special Perks:  Top-performing carriers can get extra benefits, like early access to new contract offers, giving you a big advantage over the competition.   Build a Good Reputation:  A great score shows Amazon that you are a professional and trustworthy partner, which helps you grow your business in the long run   Protecting Your Score and Appealing Deactivation The best way to deal with a low score in 2025  is to prevent it from happening. Being careful and prepared is always the best strategy. How to Stay Ahead of Problems: Check Daily:  Look at your Relay dashboard and your safety scores every single day. This helps you spot small problems before they get bigger.   Train Your Drivers:  Make sure every driver knows how to use the Relay app perfectly. This includes keeping their phone's location services on to avoid simple mistakes.   Be Smart About Loads:  It's okay to say "no" to a job that looks risky. Protecting your On-Time score is often more important than accepting every single load.   How to Appeal If You're Deactivated: If your account gets shut down, you need to send Amazon a formal Plan of Action (POA) . This is a serious business letter, not a complaint. It must clearly explain three things :   The Main Reason:  Tell them exactly what went wrong. What You Fixed:  Explain the steps you've already taken to fix it. How You'll Prevent It:  Describe the new rules you've put in place to make sure it never happens again. Don't Just Track Your Score, Master It Reacting to a bad score is stressful and costly . The key to long-term success on Amazon Relay is to be proactive and stay ahead of the metrics.  But managing every detail manually while running your business is a challenge. A higher grade doesn't just look good; it means more money.  See how improving your grade can increase your annual profit. See for yourself how much more you could be earning. Knowing your score potential is the first step. Our Amazon Relay Dispatch Service  is designed to get you there. Let Us Manage Your Score for You . FAQs 1. What is the Amazon Relay performance score?  It’s like a report card from Amazon that grades your company's work over the last six weeks. It looks at how well you handle their loads, from being on time to using their app correctly. Your grade can range from A+ to F.   2. What are the main things Amazon grades me on?  Amazon's report card focuses on four key metrics :   On-Time Performance:  Arriving at your pickups and deliveries by the scheduled time. Acceptance:  The rate at which you accept the jobs Amazon offers you. App Usage:  Correctly using the Relay for Driver app for the entire trip. Disruption-Free:  Completing your trips without problems, like a stationary trailer. 3. What happens if I get an 'F' score?   An 'F' score is a serious issue. You will lose access to the best loads and will not be eligible for contracts. If your score stays low, Amazon can suspend your account, which means you can't book any loads. A continued 'F' score can lead to your account being permanently banned from the platform.   4. What is a CSA score and why does Amazon care about it?   A CSA score is your official safety grade from the government (FMCSA). Amazon checks this score very closely and has its own safety rules that are even stricter than the government's. If your safety score gets too high (which is bad), Amazon can suspend your account, even if your performance score on their report card is perfect.   5. What are the benefits of keeping my score high?   A high score (a 'B' grade or better) is like a VIP pass. You get priority access to see and book the best loads, especially during busy times like Prime week and the holidays. Most importantly, a high score makes you eligible for contracts, which provide steady, predictable work and income for your business.   6. My account was deactivated. Can I get it back?   It’s possible to get your account back by filing an appeal. To do this, you must send Amazon a formal document called a Plan of Action , often called a POA.   7. How long does an appeal usually take?   Most appeals receive a decision from Amazon within a few business days. However, if the issue is more complex, such as a safety or fraud investigation, it can take longer.

Wondering if you can build a profitable trucking business on local Amazon Relay loads?  The answer is a definitive yes, but it’s no walk in the park.  This isn't a passive income stream; it's a demanding niche that rewards hyper-efficiency and strategic discipline . Think of it less as a typical load board and more as a high-stakes, performance-based game.  For those who master the rules, a sustainable local trucking business with daily home time is the ultimate prize. How Relay Works & Why Your Score Matters  Amazon Relay isn't a free-for-all marketplace; it’s a managed, performance-driven   "walled garden" with a strict bouncer at the door . Getting access requires clearing significant hurdles designed to filter for established, safe carriers. You’ll need: Operating Authority:  A DOT number with interstate authority active for at least 180 days . Superior Safety Scores:  Amazon demands safety ratings and BASIC scores that are significantly better than the federal minimums. High Insurance Coverage :  A cool $1,000,000 in both auto and general liability, plus $100,000 in cargo coverage. This is a major fixed cost. But getting in is just the start. Your Relay Performance Score dictates your entire livelihood on the platform.  A high score is your golden ticket to the most lucrative freight, like stable contracts and guaranteed-pay "Blocks." A low score can effectively "ghost you from the board," limiting You to unprofitable baseline rates.  This is why meticulous operational discipline isn't just good practice; it's a survival mechanism. What You Earn vs. What You Spend Local Relay work presents a unique financial puzzle. Your daily miles are lower, which means your huge fixed costs , like insurance and truck payments, have a much bigger impact on your per-mile operating cost. With the industry average to run a truck at $2.26 per mile , this is a critical hurdle. Your revenue on the platform is split into two distinct tiers: Baseline Spot Rates:  Often paying well below that $2.26/mile break-even point, this is where carriers with low performance scores get stuck and struggle to survive. The Target: Premium Freight:  An A+ Performance Score unlocks access to high-paying loads, stable "Blocks" with guaranteed pay, and lucrative peak season surges. This is where you thrive. Your entire business strategy must focus on one goal: using flawless performance to escape the baseline trap and operate exclusively in the profitable premium tier. Where to Find the Best Local Loads In a local-only model, your zip code is your destiny. Success requires operating within a dense network of Amazon facilities to ensure a steady stream of work and minimize deadhead.  Based on Amazon's massive logistics footprint, these metro areas represent your best opportunities : Southern California  (Inland Empire) Texas  (Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex) Georgia  (Atlanta Metro) Illinois  (Chicago Metro) Pennsylvania / New Jersey  (I-78/I-95 Corridor) Ohio / Northern Kentucky  (Cincinnati Metro) If you operate in these high-volume markets, you should be prepared for "intense competition, which can crush rates on standard lanes".   To succeed, the document suggests that you "consider specializing in hyper-local 'Shuttle & Hostler' work" .  This can provide you with predictable revenue and protect your business from the competition of the open spot market. Two Smart Ways to Succeed Profitability isn’t just about where you work, but how you work. You need a clear game plan. For local Amazon Relay, two distinct and successful blueprints emerge : The Flexible Solo Driver This model is about flexibility and maximizing revenue per hour. Focus:  High-paying, urgent spot loads. Strategy:  Work unconventional hours (nights, weekends) when competition is lower and rates are higher. Maintain an A+ Performance Score  to get the first pick of the best loads. This approach is all about cherry-picking the most profitable runs. Goal:  Maximize profit margin on a per-load basis. The Stable Small Fleet This model is built for stability, high asset utilization, and predictable cash flow. Focus:  Guaranteed-pay "Blocks" and multi-week Contracts. Strategy:  Prioritize consistent revenue to cover the fixed costs of multiple trucks and drivers. Spot loads are only used to fill scheduling gaps. This model relies on centralized dispatch to maintain high performance across the entire fleet. Goal:  Maximize consistent gross revenue and build a scalable business. For either blueprint, the choice is clear: stick to a power-only strategy.  It eliminates the cost of owning trailers and aligns perfectly with Amazon’s efficient drop-and-hook system, keeping your wheels turning and earning. See Your Score Potential, Then Realize Your Profit Use our calculator to see how a better Amazon Relay score directly boosts your annual profit. Ready to achieve that number? Protecting your score is critical.  Our expert dispatchers specialize in Score Maintenance and Score Recovery , managing the complexities so you can focus on driving and earning. Is Local Amazon Relay Worth It?  A local-only strategy with Amazon Relay can be profitable,  but it's a demanding niche that rewards discipline ,  not shortcuts . Here’s a balanced look: Pros  Cons  Consistent High Freight Volume Intense Rate Competition Superior Work-Life Balance  (home daily) Dependency on Performance Score Operational Simplicity  (drop-and-hook) High Fixed Costs Financial Stability  (weekly pay) Limited Carrier Autonomy Success comes down to execution. While casual operators may struggle with low rates, disciplined carriers who master the performance score and choose a smart strategy can build a profitable local business, and still be home every night. Dominate Your Local Market With The Best USA Amazon Local Load Dispatching Profitability in local hauling is a game of inches. Maximizing revenue within a tight radius, while ensuring you're home every night, requires perfect execution.   At Amazon Relay Dispatch, we specialize in mastering the Local Amazon Relay market , turning your daily routes into a consistently profitable enterprise. We are your dedicated partners in navigating the local ecosystem. Our expert dispatchers work to: Elevate Your Performance Score:  We proactively manage your tenders and compliance, which is critical for unlocking the best local loads. Secure High-Paying Local Freight:  We find and book the most lucrative local Blocks and spot loads, ensuring high revenue without the long miles. Optimize Local Asset Utilization:  We focus on stringing together multiple short-haul trips and minimizing deadhead within your metro area to keep your truck earning all day. Provide Hyper-Local Market Insights:  We leverage our expertise to identify the most profitable facility-to-facility lanes in your specific region. Book a Free Consultation Call with Amazon Relay Dispatch  to build a thriving local operation that pays you well and gets you home daily. FAQs 1. Can I profit from local Amazon Relay loads?   Amazon Relay requires a high Performance Score to access profitable, premium-rate loads. Baseline spot rates are often below the average cost of operation, making discipline essential. 2. What are the main requirements to join?   Carriers need a 180-day minimum operating authority, high-limit insurance, and safety scores that exceed federal mandates. 3. Why is the Relay Performance Score so important?   It directly governs your access to the most lucrative freight. A high score is required to book the best-paying contracts and guaranteed-pay "Blocks". 4. Do I need my own trailer for local work?   The system is built on power-only, drop-and-hook freight. You provide the tractor and hook to Amazon's pre-loaded trailers, which drastically reduces dwell time. 5. Where are the best markets for local Relay?   High-density markets with clusters of Amazon facilities are crucial. Prime territories include Southern California's Inland Empire, the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, and the Chicago metro area.

Every carrier wants more profitable loads , but in a market as competitive as Chicago, finding them isn’t always easy.  Hidden in plain sight are short facility-to-facility runs  that smart carriers use to boost their daily gross without leaving the metro. The question is, how do you tap into them and make the most of every mile? How Chicago Cross-Town Runs Beat Long Hauls? Think of trucking like boxing: long hauls go the distance, but Chicago’s short runs land the knockout punch.  Chicago’s cross-town shuttles let you stack multiple trips in one shift and still be home nightly. That’s the beauty of Chicago facility loads. With Amazon warehouses packed tightly across Aurora, Joliet, Matteson, Huntley, and West Chicago , the short distances mean: Higher pay per mile:  Cross-town shuttles often average $4–$5 per mile , compared to many OTR lanes paying $1.50–$2.00. More turns per day:  Instead of one 500-mile haul, you can run 4–5 short facility loads  in a single shift. Less fuel, less wear:  Short trips mean fewer gallons burned and less stress on your truck. Home every night:  Local work keeps drivers close to family while still hitting strong daily gross. For owner-operators and small fleet dispatchers , that combination of profitability + lifestyle  is why Chicago cross-town runs consistently beat long-hauls. Mapping Chicago’s Most Active Amazon Warehouses Chicago’s freight advantage comes from density, a tight cluster of Amazon warehouses , rail ramps, and partner facilities spread across the metro area .  For carriers, this means more facility-to-facility runs , higher frequency, and less deadhead. Here are the key facilities  from the Chicago Relay map that matter most to local carriers: Aurora – MDW9: Amazon’s flagship hub in Chicagoland. High-volume outbound loads and short cross-town runs. Key lanes to West Chicago (12–20 mi), Romeoville (29 mi), and Joliet (33 mi). Joliet – MDW2: A major Amazon cross-dock along I-80. Frequent shuttles to ORD9 (13 mi), Corwith rail ramp (55 mi), and Matteson (21 mi). Matteson – ORD5: A southern suburb hub connecting Joliet and Monee. High-frequency short runs: Joliet (21 mi), Monee (7.7 mi), and IGQ1 (10 mi). West Chicago Facilities (SIL3, Supply Chain, etc.):  A cluster of fulfillment and sort centers in DuPage County. Short loops to Aurora (12 mi) and Romeoville (29 mi). Huntley – RFD Hub: Northwest suburban hub. Connects with Palentine DLN8 (29 mi), Aurora (31 mi), and Corwith (64 mi). Corwith Intermodal Ramp (Chicago): A major rail hub where Amazon freight often ties into intermodal. Nearby connections to DXH5 (3.5 mi), Cicero (6 mi), and Landers (10 mi). Romeoville – DCX6: A smaller but important cross-town facility. Often pairs with West Chicago (29 mi) and Aurora (29 mi). Palentine – DLN8: North suburban facility, frequently running to Aurora (33 mi) and Romeoville (36 mi). Willow Springs Yard: A key rail and intermodal connection point. Short lanes to Cicero (12 mi) and CSX (8 mi). What Makes These Facilities a Goldmine for Local Runs Dense clustering = higher turns : Aurora, Joliet, and West Chicago are less than 35 miles apart, allowing multiple loops daily. Blend of Amazon + Intermodal : Ties at Corwith and Willow Springs are ideal for Amazon Prime 53-ft Chicago rails  operations. Consistent volume : These hubs feed Chicago’s last-mile and outbound freight network, creating reliable daily work. How to Be Profitable with Chicago Facility Loads Profit in Chicago isn’t about driving farther, it’s about stacking the right short runs. The formula is simple: Profit = (Rate Per Mile × Miles) × Number of Runs – Expenses Let’s break it down with real examples from Chicago’s facility network: Aurora (MDW9) → Joliet (MDW2)  25 miles × $4.50/mi = $112 one way Joliet (MDW2) → Matteson (ORD5)  32 miles × $4.25/mi = $136 one way Aurora (MDW9) → West Chicago  20 miles × $5.00/mi = $100 one way Now, stack them: Daily Example: Run Aurora → Joliet ($112) Joliet → Matteson ($136) Matteson → Aurora ($125 est.) Aurora → West Chicago ($100) Total Gross = $473  (in ~5–6 hours of driving). Add a fifth short shuttle  and your gross easily climbs to $600+ per day , while still being home nightly. Challenges to Keep in Mind Even profitable short-haul work comes with hurdles: Congestion:  Chicago traffic adds time if you don’t plan around peak hours. Facility Wait Times:  Aurora and Joliet yards can back up during busy seasons. System Errors:  Relay app glitches or missed check-ins may unfairly hit your score. The good news: most of these issues can be managed with smart planning, and disputes can clear up performance hits when they happen. How to Maximize Chicago Facility Loads Here’s our dispatch expert's advice  on how to maximize your runs and keep your trucks profitable in Chicago’s facility network: Plan Ahead:  Book back-to-back loads between Aurora, Joliet, and Matteson to cut deadhead. Time It Right:  Avoid peak congestion hours for smoother turns. Protect Your Score:  Don’t let unfair rejections stick; dispute penalties to keep access to premium loads. Focus on Consistency:  Regular short-hauls pay better overall than chasing long one-off runs. Choose the Leading USA Amazon Local Load Dispatching Team At Amazon Relay Dispatch Services, we understand the importance of Chicago’s cross-town routes for local carriers .  That’s why we combine smart strategy with AI-powered dispatch planning  to keep your trucks profitable.  Our system helps you identify the  highest-paying facility loads  in real-time, link back-to-back runs that eliminate deadhead, balance driver hours for maximum daily earnings, and ensure your trucks stay loaded with premium freight . Our services include:  Handling load cancellations, detention, and layovers to protect your revenue   Resolving performance and compliance disputes  Fixing rejections and penalties, even driver-related ones  Monitoring score metrics to protect access to premium loads  Communicating with Amazon and brokers  Keeping your fleet running smoothly when issues arise  Booking the most profitable Chicago facility runs while minimizing deadhead and planning ahead   Book a free consultation today  and let us help you secure more profitable Chicago facility loads while protecting your Amazon Relay account. FAQs About Chicago Amazon Relay Facility Loads 1. How much do Chicago Amazon facility loads pay? Most cross-town runs between Aurora, Joliet, Matteson, and West Chicago average $4–$5 per mile , with short trips paying $100–$150 each. 2. Can I run multiple Amazon Relay loads in a single day? Many local carriers complete 4–5 short hauls per day  in Chicago, grossing $500–$700 daily while still being home at night. 3. Does Amazon pay for canceled loads? If Amazon cancels a load within 2 hours of pickup time , carriers typically receive a $175 cancellation fee  as compensation. 4. What requirements do I need to book Chicago Amazon Relay loads? Carriers must have active DOT/MC authority (at least 180 days old), $1M auto liability insurance, $100k cargo insurance, and power units (day cab or sleeper). Many Chicago runs are power-only , so you won’t need your own trailer. 5. How do I avoid performance score penalties on short-haul runs? Plan routes carefully to minimize congestion delays, always check in with the Relay app, and dispute unfair penalties. Even if a driver was late or overbooked, many rejections can still be overturned.