How to Get Started in Freight Brokering
If you want to get started in the freight brokering industry, there are a number of ways to acquire the skills and education required. Some programs are available online while others provide face-to-face classroom training. The right option will depend on your learning style and needs, as well as your budget and schedule.
Broker Training
While freight brokerage isn’t required by law, attending a broker training program can help you launch your career in the trucking industry with greater confidence. In addition to providing the foundational knowledge and skills you’ll need to work successfully in this field, freight broker courses can also help you find more loads and build your reputation. They may even allow you to earn higher freight broker salary than you would if you were to join the industry without any formal training.
The best online freight broker training programs offer in-depth instruction on the different aspects of starting and operating a successful freight brokerage. They teach you everything from the differences between a freight agent and broker, how to register your company and obtain a license, and how to secure financing and insurance. Many of these programs also include practical lessons on locating shippers, motor carriers and loads, as well as negotiating rates.
You can find broker training from various schools, colleges and universities. Some offer both online and in-person classes, so you can choose the option that’s best for your schedule and budget. Some of these options will even provide additional support and resources after you complete your course, such as a job placement service or mentoring program.
Another option is to enroll in a freight broker training class with an experienced trucking industry professional as your instructor. These courses typically run for a week or two and cover everything from basic business practices to advanced freight brokering skills. You’ll be taught techniques for tackling sales, marketing and negotiating freight rates, as well as how to use TMS software to find the most profitable routes for your load.
One of the most popular online freight broker courses is the Freight Broker Boot Camp. The course was created by an actual freight broker, and it teaches you how to navigate the entire process of getting your freight broker license and running a freight brokerage.
The course includes a comprehensive set of instructional videos, PDFs and other materials that will help you understand the different aspects of the industry. You’ll learn about freight broker jobs, legal requirements and how to negotiate with customers, load carriers and other transporters. You’ll also be taught how to set up your office, recordkeeping and back-office procedures, as well as the different types of freight brokers and their responsibilities.
While the cost of a broker training course will vary depending on the school and its quality, it’s generally worth investing in. A quality course will help you avoid costly mistakes and start your trucking career on the right foot. It will also give you the tools you need to succeed, including easy-to-use load boards and TMS software for streamlining your operations. ABA’s Broker Boot Camp is one of the most affordable and comprehensive options available. In fact, DAT members can get the course for a discounted price of $599.