Remember, becoming a successful freight agent takes time, effort, and persistence. By taking the right steps and building your knowledge and network, you can position yourself for success in this exciting industry. Southwest Star Inc. will be more than happy to help you make your first steps and share its knowledge to start your new career!
What is a Freight Agent?
A freight agent is an independent contractor who helps connect shippers with carriers willing to haul the freight. A freight agent works for a freight broker and plays a crucial role in the movement of freight, as a customer-facing salesperson of sorts who has to find available carriers to ship a client’s freight.
Freight Agent Salary
A freight agent’s salary can be paid as an hourly or annual salary and they can also earn a commission percentage based on the profit they are able to bring in for the freight broker. According to the national average freight agent salary is $62,332 (based on 197 freight agent employee reports). Some freight agent salaries are only commission based so there are endless possibilities for earnings.
What is the difference between a freight agent and a freight broker?
Freight agents and brokers are often conflated or confused. The major difference is licensure and liability. A freight broker is licensed through the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and is legally responsible for the cargo. A freight agent is not licensed or liable.
Is it worth becoming a freight broker agent?
Yes, it is worth becoming a freight broker. This career can be lucrative and can bring a significant amount of flexibility since you own your own business. Trucks are responsible for getting the majority of the U.S.’s food, clothing, and other products where they need to go, so there is no shortage of business for freight brokers.
What kind of licensing or bonds do I need to be a freight broker agent?
You absolutely do not need to buy a license or a bond to be a freight broker agent. Working as a freight broker agent is similar in many ways to being a realtor, insurance agent, or hairstylist. The company you work under pays many of the costs needed to run the brokerage so you don’t have to.
Others may convince you to spend 1000s on a freight broker license and bond that you don’t need as an agent. Other schools sell licenses and bonds, we do not.
The best freight brokers in the industry come on graduation day to talk to our top-notch graduates about working with them.
Why should I attend Freight Broker Academy, LLC versus other broker training schools?
Freight Broker Academy will arm you with the necessary knowledge you need to succeed in this business and we will motivate you to become a true professional in the field. Freight Broker Academy is the number one trainer of freight brokers in the nation. We have earned that position by training scores of future brokers and agents and delivering training that consistently exceeds student expectations. Our instructors have a combined experience of over 40 years in the transportation industry and hold college degrees with extensive classroom training experience.
While there are many training companies offering freight broker training, and some at cheaper prices, this is an instance where you truly get what you pay for. Be sure to do your homework before agreeing to attend any school, including Freight Broker Academy. When talking to a school’s representative ask about credentials, associations, placement guarantees, brokerage practices, instructor qualifications, and business standings. You are embarking on a new career; if you want to be successful seek out the best training, not the cheapest.
At Freight Broker Academy, we offer our students comprehensive training followed by the guarantee of freight agent placement. We also offer graduate perks, like unlimited graduate support and discounts on rate calculation tools. While all of these are great benefits to attending our training, the greatest benefit is the education we offer combined with our emphasis on honesty, integrity, and service.
How much do Freight Brokers make their first year?
There is a typical freight broker salary of $61,071/year or $31 per hour. Experienced workers make up to $107,500 a year on average.
How do I become a Freight Agent with no experience?
Becoming a Freight Agent with no experience can seem daunting, but it’s not impossible. Here are a few steps you can take to get started:
1. Find a reputable training program: Look for a training program that offers comprehensive instruction on freight brokerage, including industry-specific software and tools. You may also want to consider a program that offers job placement assistance.
2. Consider working for an established brokerage: Working for an established brokerage can provide valuable on-the-job training and help you build your network of contacts. This can also be a good way to gain experience and learn the ropes of the industry before starting your own brokerage.
3. Network with industry professionals: Attend industry events, join online forums, and connect with industry professionals on LinkedIn. Building relationships with industry insiders can help you gain valuable insights and make valuable connections.