This guide walks you through how to assign a relay load and ensure proper tracking throughout the handoff.
When should you designate a relay load?
Designate a relay (staged) load when:
One driver or vehicle will not complete the full route
You plan to transfer the load between vehicles mid-route
Your operation requires a scheduled handoff between drivers
Step 1: Assign the primary vehicle
Navigate to My Loads
Find the load you want to assign
Click Assign Vehicle
Select the vehicle that will handle the first leg of the trip
At this point, Highway may prompt you to confirm how the load will be handled.
Step 2: Choose relay vs. single-vehicle assignment
After selecting a vehicle, Highway will ask:
“Is this a relay load?”
Select No, assign if one vehicle will complete the entire load
Select Yes if the load will be handed off to another vehicle
Step 3: Assign the relay (secondary) vehicle
If you select Yes:
A new prompt will appear to assign a secondary (relay) vehicle
Choose the vehicle that will complete the next segment of the trip
Confirm your selection
This second vehicle represents the continuation of the load after the handoff.
Step 4: Set the switch time
Once both vehicles are assigned, you’ll be asked to enter a Switch Time.
Switch Time = when the relay vehicle takes over the load
Enter the expected date and time of the handoff
This tells Highway when to stop tracking the first vehicle and begin tracking the second
Accurate switch timing is critical for proper visibility and tracking continuity.
What happens after setup?
Highway tracks the primary vehicle until the switch time if the vehicle is ELD connected.
If the vehicle is verified ELD exempt, use Highway’s mobile app for tracking
At the switch time, tracking automatically shifts to the relay vehicle
Tracking continues seamlessly through delivery
Best practices
Set an accurate switch time to avoid tracking gaps
Confirm both vehicles are active and trackable before assigning
Communicate handoff timing with drivers to ensure alignment
Update the switch time if plans change
Troubleshooting
Tracking didn’t switch correctly
Check that the switch time was entered correctly (time zone matters)
Verify the relay vehicle has an active connection
Wrong vehicle assigned
Reassign the vehicle before the switch time if possible