Becoming a Truck Freight Broker
A truck freight broker helps match manufacturing companies with trucking companies. A successful broker will be able to set up truck pick-ups and deliveries, maintain accurate shipping records and ensure that all freight arrives safely and on time. Many brokers work from home and have a list of customer contacts they can turn to when the need arises. If you enjoy working with people, possess project management skills, want to run your own business and have a basic understanding of transportation needs, consider becoming a truck freight broker.
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Things You'll Need
- Computer with Internet connection Fax machine Business phone Transportation software Business card
Instructions
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How to Become a Truck Freight Broker
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1
Research the trucking and transportation industry to learn more about the day-to-day tasks of a truck freight broker. Basic skills needed include:
-Sales and marketing
-An understanding of the transportation system
-Customer service skills
-Bookkeeping skills
-Attention to detail
If you have little experience in transportation or shipping, you may want to take an online or vocational course in freight broker/agent training. -
2
Obtain the necessary license and bonding to open your business. Truck freight brokers need to complete and file the following paperwork through the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA):
-Broker's Authority (Form OP-1)
-Surety Bond (Forms to fill out include BMC-84, Bmc-85)
-Processing Agent (Forms to fill out include BOC-3) -
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3
Create a home office or rent office space. You will need a computer with Internet connection, fax machine, phone and transportation software. Many truck freight brokers work from home, which can save money in overhead costs.
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4
Contact trucking companies, manufacturers, and shipping yards and start building your customer lists. Establishing your business may take time, depending on the need for your services and your persistence. Once you establish these contacts, use this list to manage and increase your business. Truck freight brokers use their lists everyday to match manufacturers with those who have a need for a trucking company to haul their latest shipments.
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Continue to build your list and relationships with trucking companies and manufacturers. Attend local networking events, maintain your list by contacting new companies in your area, and make sure your bonding and licenses are current.
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Tips & Warnings
If you don't want to start your own freight business, you can become a truck freight broker agent. Agents work for other brokers and share the profits they earn. You do not need to be licensed to become an agent.
Set aside at least three months worth of expenses before starting your business. This will allow you to focus on marketing your services.
