How to Become a Freight Broker in Kansas
Communication and organizational skills are two of the most important qualities a freight broker must have. When shipping companies need to move freight, they may be in need of carriers to transport items. This is where freight brokers come in. They are responsible for connecting shipping companies with responsible carriers, as well as keeping both parties abreast of updates and developments throughout the shipping process. Freight brokers may also employ freight agents to help facilitate the logistics of connecting shipping companies with carriers.
Requirements for Becoming a Freight Broker in Kansas
Freight brokers are not held to state-mandated regulations before being eligible to practice; however, they are held to national standards. These national regulations require freight brokers to have a minimum of a high school diploma or GED, as well as a government-issued license.
Options are available to earn certification, although taking this step is not a requirement to find employment. It is a great idea to enroll in a training program to properly learn the tricks of the trade. This will prepare you to enter the industry with confidence and skill.
Kansas Schools for Freight Brokers
Some colleges and universities offer training for freight brokers, but this is not common in most states. Most programs are based online, and sessions that take place in-person may be restricted to certain states.
- Load Training offers ourses both online and in-person. Five-day in-person training sessions are available in cities like Phoenix, Houston and Atlanta. Areas of training include how to create a truck availability database,and how to respond to inquiries from carriers and shippers.
- Brooke Transportation Training Solutions allows qualifying military veterans to attend courses free of charge. Courses are available in-person and online, and students will learn both basic and advanced techniques. All students are able to receive assistance with job placement after course completion.
- Freight Movers School also offers in-person and online courses. Basic courses are available to new freight brokers, while existing freight brokers will enjoy the course on improving sales. In-person courses are offered in Texas and Georgia.
Certifications for Becoming a Freight Broker in Kansas
The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) is responsible for overseeing licensing requirements for freight brokers across the country.
To obtain your Motor Carrier Operating Authority license, also known as a Broker Authority license, you must first register your company as a business. Next, you will need to obtain a U.S. Department of Transportation number. You will then submit this number, along with an application and $300 application fee, to the FMCSA. Application processing time is between 4 and 6 weeks. All freight brokers are also required to carry a $75,000 surety bond at all times.
If you are interested in taking advantage of all the options available to help you advance within this industry, you may want to consider taking the Certified Transportation Brokers exam, which is offered exclusively through the Transportation Intermediaries Association. Earning your certification could help you land higher paying job opportunities or allow you to work with more high-end clients as a business owner.
Career Outlook and Salary Expectations
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) released data in 2017 that stated that freight brokers in Kansas earned an average hourly income of $23.14, or $48,120 annually. The highest paid freight brokers in this state earned more than $70,000 during the same year.
The BLS also states that there were about 660 freight brokers working in Kansas during 2016. By 2026, this number is projected to jump to 770, signifying an 18.2 percent expansion in the job market during this 10-year period.
Working as a Freight Broker in Kansas
When it comes to being a freight broker, you will earn the most in cities that are densely populated. Freight brokers in Kansas will earn the highest compensation in cities like Kansas City, Wichita and Overland Park.
As people continue to shop online and purchase items virtually, freight brokers will continue to turn profits. You may choose to work for a freight brokerage that is already established, or you may prefer to build your own business and work for yourself. If you believe this is the career field for you, consider getting started as a freight broker today.