How to Become a Freight Broker in Maine

When a shipping company receives a new load, they may have need for a responsible carrier to transport the items to their intended destination. Freight brokers act as middlemen between shippers and carriers, making the proper connections to ensure both parties are satisfied. This enables freight brokers to build long-lasting relationships that generate consistent revenue. Typically, freight brokers will employ freight agents as independent contractors. These freight agents will handle more of the day-to-day, customer service aspects of the business.

Requirements for Becoming a Freight Broker in Maine

Before finding employment or starting your own business as a freight broker, national law requires that you first have a high school diploma or GED and then obtain a government-issued Broker Authority license.

You may opt to earn certification, complete a freight brokerage training program or find an internship opportunity. While none of these options are mandatory for this career field, they are all helpful stepping stones that will enable you to navigate your way through the ranks of the industry with ease.

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Maine Schools for Freight Brokers

The training programs listed below are available to freight brokers across the country. Find out if one of these options will be suitable for your achievement goals.

  • Load Training offers nline and in-person training options. The school holds five-day, in-person training sessions in cities like Atlanta, Phoenix and Houston. Students will learn how to respond to inquiries from carriers and shippers, how to create a truck availability database and more.
  • Brooke Transportation Training Solutions also offers courses that take place both in-person and online. Training options are available for new freight brokers as well as for those who are experienced. Qualifying military veterans are able to attend courses for free, and all students receive job placement assistance upon course completion.
  • Freight Movers School offers in-person courses in Georgia and Texas. Online courses are also available, and areas of training include freight brokerage techniques as well as improving sales.

Certifications for Becoming a Freight Broker in Maine

Anyone who wishes to build a career as a freight broker must obtain their license through the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).

Obtaining your Broker Authority license (also referred to as a Motor Carrier Operating Authority license) requires that you first register your company as a business. You will then need to obtain a U.S. Department of Transportation number. After doing so, the FMCSA requires that you submit this number, along with an application and $300 application fee. Once the FMCSA has received this information, it will take about 4 to 6 weeks for your application to process. When your application is approved, you will receive your license. All freight brokers will be required to carry a $75,000 surety bond at all times.

Freight brokers who are interested in earning credentials may want to complete the Certified Transportation Brokers exam, which is offered exclusively through the Transportation Intermediaries Association.

Career Outlook and Salary Expectations

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) released data in 2017 that indicated freight brokers in Maine earned an average hourly income of $22.89, or $47,610 annually. The highest paid freight brokers in this state earned more than $60,000 during the same year.

The BLS also states that there were about 230 freight brokers working in Maine during 2016. By 2026, this number is expected to jump to 240, signifying a 6.1 percent expansion in the job market during this 10-year period.

Working as a Freight Broker in Maine

Freight brokers typically earn the best compensation in large cities. This is because there is likely to be a higher amount of transport coming in and out of these metropolitan areas. In Maine, the highest paid freight brokers will be found working in cities like Portland, Lewiston and Bangor.

The job market for freight brokers will continue to expand, especially as people do more of their shopping online. Employment will be available at freight brokerages, but many people that enter this career field may be interested in starting their own brokerage company. It will take time, patience and skill, but if you are dedicated to the craft, you can achieve great success as a freight broker.