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.
Kansas residents can benefit from the structure and simplicity of 90 Day Freight Broker, which teaches brokerage setup, shipper outreach, and more.
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 freight brokerage industry in Kansas is experiencing growth, with salaries for cargo and freight agents reflecting this positive trend. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) data from 2022 shows that freight brokers in Kansas earn an average annual income higher than previously reported.
As of the latest data, cargo and freight agents in the United States earn an average salary of $46,860 per year. In Kansas, these professionals earn an average salary of $48,480 annually, slightly higher than the national average. The top 10 percent of earners in Kansas make more than $62,200 per year.
National vs. Kansas Salaries:
| Percentile | United States Salary | Kansas Salary |
|---|---|---|
| 10% | $32,720 | $26,060 |
| 25% | $38,400 | $42,000 |
| Median (50%) | $46,860 | $48,480 |
| 75% | $58,710 | $53,780 |
| 90% | $70,280 | $62,200 |
Salaries by Region in Kansas:
| Location | 10% | 25% | Median (50%) | 75% | 90% |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kansas City, MO-KS | $38,620 | $41,630 | $48,480 | $57,890 | $64,420 |
| Wichita, KS | $26,060 | $26,060 | $44,330 | $56,670 | $62,450 |
Freight Broker Trends in Kansas
The employment trends for Cargo and Freight Agents in Kansas (43-5011.00) show a notable growth trajectory for the decade from 2020 to 2030. In 2020, Kansas had 500 employees working in this occupation. This number is projected to increase to 620 employees by 2030, representing a significant growth rate of 24%. Additionally, there are expected to be around 70 job openings annually over this period, which includes openings due to both growth and replacement. This trend indicates a robust job market for cargo and freight agents in Kansas, surpassing the national average growth rate.
In comparison, the national trend for the same period shows a growth rate of 10%, which is considered much faster than average. In 2022, there were 95,900 employees in this occupation across the United States, with projections indicating an increase to 105,200 employees by 2032. Nationally, there are expected to be about 11,000 job openings annually over this period.
Employment Trends
| Location | Employment (2020) | Projected Employment (2030) | Projected Growth (2020-2030) | Projected Annual Job Openings (2020-2030) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kansas | 500 employees | 620 employees | 24% | 70 |
| United States | 95,900 employees (2022) | 105,200 employees (2032) | 10% (Much faster than average) | 11,000 |
Sources of Data:
Kansas Data: The employment figures and projections for Kansas are sourced from Projections Central, specifically their 2020-2030 long-term projections. Projections Central is known for providing detailed and state-specific employment projections, offering valuable insights into various occupational trends.
United States Data: The national employment figures and projections are obtained from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), specifically their 2022-2032 employment projections.
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.