Freight brokers play an essential role in making transportation of goods smoother and more efficient across the supply chain, from manufacturers to stores and eventually to customers.
Their daily tasks involve finding and vetting carriers, negotiating rates, arranging transportation, handling documentation, managing customer relationships and problem-solving when issues arise.
Freight brokers are crucial in the supply chain as they provide benefits to both shippers and carriers in terms of efficiency, access to wider networks, negotiating power, and simplified logistics.
There are different types of freight brokers specializing in various niches, including general freight brokers, specialised freight brokers, intermodal brokers, and international freight brokers.
Becoming a freight broker requires a combination of education, training, and licensing; education and industry experience can be helpful, while obtaining a freight broker's license from the FMCSA is a must.
Successful freight brokers possess a unique set of skills, including communication, negotiation, problem-solving, and time management skills, as well as familiarity with technology applications and financial management.
The freight brokerage process involves a series of steps that ensure the efficient and timely movement of goods from origin to destination along with tracking and addressing issues that arise.
Freight brokers allow businesses to concentrate on their core functions while handling the complex logistics of freight transportation by bringing together shippers and carriers who need to transport products.