Freight Broker FAQs

Answer: Our training is self paced and never expires so you can take as long or short as you want. However, most students complete the training in 2-3 weeks!

Answer: Our training is 100% online and works on any device and is available in audio book, eBook, physical book or any website device.

Answer: We have partners that can help you get your Freight Broker Authority which is referred to as a license! We also have a guide to help you do it yourself!

Answer: A broker is the owner of his or her own company. They are required to meet all legal requirements (Authority, Bond, BOC-3) to operate as a broker.
An agent works under the authority of the broker and typically receives a percentage of the brokerage fee.

Answer: U.S. Bureau of the Census County Business Patterns indicate that agricultural and manufacturing businesses are growing exponentially every year. Today, it is estimated that there are close to a million shippers. Needless to say, there is a very large market for brokers and agents. It has recently been estimated that freight transportation cost in the US is well over the multi billion dollar range annually and is rising. The amount of freight being moved by third parties such as freight brokers is currently estimated in the 20-30% range and growing. More shippers are using brokers & forwarders each year since it is usually much less expensive for a shipper to use an outsource, such as you and me, than to fund and maintain an in-house staff functioning as a transportation department. Employee-related costs are usually the most expensive part of any business operation. Paying a broker on a performance-only basis is the trend of the future with many shippers.

Answer: There are several different areas in which to find shippers. A number of freight brokers purchase industry databases and member information of different industry organizations. You can also enter into Co-Broker agreements with other freight brokerages.

The primary job function you will perform is to contact companies who ship products and establish new accounts to use your services. You will also contact carriers in which to move your freight through using internet load boards, carrier databases and industry associations that you have acquired through networking.

Answer: Earnings are determined on your motivation to succeed, and also how you adapt to the industry. A full-time freight broker can easily make from $50,000 to well over six figures ($$$$$$). This is a recession proof business that provides unlimited income potential and a long range customer base for the right person.

Answer: BOC-3 is a processing agent. This is a representative upon whom court papers may be served in any proceeding brought against a motor carrier, broker, or freight forwarder.

Answer: You must post a bond of at least $75,000. The amount you pay for your bond depends on a number of factors including the type of bond you choose and the programs provided by the financial institution you choose to use.

Answer: The FMCSA charges $300.00 to apply for operating authority (motor property carrier, motor passenger carrier, freight forwarder, broker). It requires that you fill out a 4 page form. You can do it online or by mail. We can also file for your operating authority with the FMCSA for a service fee of $349.00.

Answer: You must apply for your authority from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) allowing you to act as a freight broker, post a $10,000 Surety Bond and file your BOC-3. You will also be required to complete a yearly Unified Carrier Registration.

Answer: A freight broker assumes all legal and financial responsibilities for the movement of cargo. They have met the requirements under the FMCSA Guidelines to legally operate as a property broker in the United States. A freight agent serves as an independent contractor for a freight brokerage but serves in the same capacity. Typically freight agents starting out will receive a commission of 50% of the gross profit from every load. An agent who is established with a book of business can command as high as 75% of the gross profit from freight moved for the brokerage. The agent in return does not assume any responsibility for insurance, authority, claims or collections of freight bills.

Answer: Property Broker is the correct terminology for many names used in the business to identify what we do. Truck Broker, Freight Broker, Freight Agent, Transportation Broker or Agent are all interchangeable terms synonymous with Property Broker’. Property Broker Authority allows a third-party to arrange pick up and delivery of a Shipper’s product by a Carrier without ever having physical control of the shipment.

Answer: The course is self-paced. There are no required study hours and course requirements. We do offer Quizzes and Certification but this is not mandated by the FMCSA.

Answer: Yes! In fact, when starting your business it is recommended that you start from a home office to keep your expenses low while you grow and expand your business.

Answer: Canadian residents who wish to broker freight within the United States must also apply for their broker authority with the FMCSA. For more information on Canada Freight Broker License Requirements visit our Canada Licensing page here.

Answer: The following are the basic office tools required for starting a freight brokerage:

1. Set Up Basic Office Equipment and Communication Tools:
   • Acquire a computer, phone, and reliable internet access.
2. Subscribe to Load Boards:
   • Access online platforms to connect with shippers and carriers.
3. Maintain Record-Keeping Systems:
   • Implement a system to keep records of transactions and communications as required by law.

Answer: Freight brokering is an excellent business and the agents and brokers that are successful are making anywhere from $40,000.00 to upwards of six figures per year depending upon the decision to work as an agent or broker and whether to operate a home-based business versus a larger office with employees. This business is based on contacts and relationships. It takes time to build contacts and relationships and turn them into paying customers. Sometimes it can take six months or longer to establish a solid customer base to see a profitable income, but it can be done in less time. Overall time lengths vary primarily on the individual\’s determination and desire to succeed in this business.

Answer: Yes. having a felony does not mean you cant apply or be granted a freight brokers license from the FMCSA. You need ONLY to be a VALID US Resident.

Answer: Yes. Our material is tailored in a comprehensive manner so that new freight agents not only understand their responsibilities, but also those of the broker.

Answer: Freight Broker Training School is not required to receive your property broker authority. However, the failure rate for those who attempt this business without freight broker training is high. In order for a broker to be successful in any industry (stock broker, real estate broker, etc.), formal training is a must. We will prepare you to perform broker duties in a profitable, ethical manner, giving you the tools needed to be successful in the field.

Answer: While a background in transportation or logistics can be helpful, it’s not a prerequisite for success as a Freight Broker. Many successful brokers come from diverse professional backgrounds and learn the industry through training and experience.

Answer: Freight brokering, like any business, requires hard work, dedication, and time to build a profitable clientele. It’s not a guaranteed way to get rich quickly, but it offers the potential for a lucrative income over time.

Answer: Technology plays a significant role in modern freight brokering. Brokers use transportation management software, load boards, and other digital tools to connect with carriers and shippers, track shipments, and manage logistics efficiently.

Answer: Yes, there is a demand for specialized brokers who focus on specific niches such as temperature-sensitive goods, oversized cargo, or hazardous materials. Specialization can lead to higher earning potential.

Answer: Disputes and issues can arise in the freight brokerage business. Effective communication and negotiation skills are essential. Brokers often have established protocols and contacts to help resolve problems.

Answer: Like any business, there are risks in freight brokering, such as financial risks and the potential for legal disputes. However, with proper training and risk management, these risks can be minimized.

Answer: Freight Brokers are not typically responsible for cargo claims or insurance. It’s the responsibility of the carrier to ensure the cargo, and shippers usually handle insurance matters.

Answer: Building a network of reliable carriers is crucial. Brokers often rely on load boards, referrals, industry events, and online communities to connect with reputable carriers.

Answer: Yes, you can start a freight brokerage business part-time and transition to full-time as your business grows. It allows you to test the waters and minimize financial risks.

Answer: You don’t need to be a U.S. citizen to become a Freight Broker, but you must be a valid U.S. resident to apply for property broker authority through the FMCSA.

Truth: The documents you need in order to file for motor carrier and/or property broker authority are readily available at the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s website. Instructions on completing these forms are provided, and if additional help is required, you can contact the FMCSA directly.

Truth: No matter who files for your authority, you will be given a temporary MC number instantly. That MC number will become permanent and active after a 10 day waiting period and after you have met the bond and BOC-3 requirements. There is no special filing method that can make this sequence of events happen any faster.

False: There are a lot of industry standards and best practices that you can learn from broker schools. A school also can have more time to compile the most comprehensive and up to date information that a active broker may know but not have time to always have it added to their course.

Truth: Teaching is a skill that requires formal training. It requires well developed skills in curriculum development, lesson preparation, lesson delivery, and appropriate evaluation.

Truth: There is only one level of broker certification: The official term is Property Broker. No matter how many schools you attend, courses you take, money you spend, or years you work, you are still a Property Broker. A more common term used is Freight Broker. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) does not recognize any other title than Property Broker. You can contact the FMCSA at 1-800-832-5660.