How to Become a Freight Broker in Nebraska
Freight brokers play an important part in helping transport goods from one place to another. Items are typically packaged by a shipping company. The shipping company may then need carriers to deliver these goods to their intended destinations. Freight brokers will find qualified, reliable carriers who can make deliveries in a timely fashion.
Throughout the shipping process, freight brokers will communicate with both carriers and shippers about important details like expected arrival time, delivery routes and other information. As a brokerage expands, it may employ freight agents as independent contractors. These freight agents will help brokers establish relationships with shippers and carriers, acting as a salesperson or customer service agent.
Requirements for Becoming a Freight Broker in Nebraska
Currently, statewide regulations do not exist in governance of freight brokerage. National regulations, however, require freight brokers to first earn a high school diploma or GED. The most important requirement is that freight brokers obtain a government-issued license to practice.
Those who are interested in improving their skillset and knowledge before entering the field may consider completing a training program for freight brokers. This is a great option for those who are interested in building their own business or establishing a long-lasting career within the industry. Other training options include finding a mentorship, apprenticeship or internship opportunity with a local freight brokerage company.
Nebraska Schools for Freight Brokers
There are lots of ways to acquire the skills and knowledge you’ll need to be successful in this industry. The options below are just some of the available training possibilities that may interest you:
- Freight Broker Boot Camp offers students six months of full online access to workflow diagrams, training articles, financial strategies, negotiating methods and much more for just $98. The program states that students can acquire the knowledge to become a freight broker within 30 days.
- Brooke Training allows tudents to learn basic and advanced brokerage techniques in an online setting. Qualifying veterans are allowed to attend for free, and all students receive job placement assistance upon course completion.
- Freight Movers School offers online and in-person courses. Programs are available for both new and experienced freight brokers, and in-person classes are available in Texas and Georgia.
Certifications for Becoming a Freight Broker in Nebraska
Aside from earning your high school diploma or GED, you will also need to register your company as a business in order to become a freight broker. Next, you will obtain your U.S. Department of Transportation number, which you will submit to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). You will also need to submit an application and $300 application fee. After four to six weeks, once your application has been approved, you will receive your Motor Carrier Operating Authority license (also referred to as a Broker Authority license).
To distinguish yourself from the competition, you may consider completing the Certified Transportation Brokers exam, which is administered by the Transportation Intermediaries Association. This certification is not required but will be helpful if you are interested in marketing yourself as a credentialed freight broker.
Career Outlook and Salary Expectations
The freight brokerage industry in Nebraska, as part of the broader freight transportation sector, is showing positive trends in terms of salaries and job growth. According to the latest data, the salary figures for cargo and freight agents have been updated from previous years.
As of 2022, cargo and freight agents in the United States earn an average salary of $46,860 per year. In Nebraska, these professionals earn an average salary of $46,410 annually, closely aligning with the national average. The top 10 percent of earners in Nebraska make more than $62,340 per year.
National vs. Nebraska Salaries:
| Percentile | United States Salary | Nebraska Salary |
|---|---|---|
| 10% | $32,720 | $21,780 |
| 25% | $38,400 | $39,130 |
| Median (50%) | $46,860 | $46,410 |
| 75% | $58,710 | $58,340 |
| 90% | $70,280 | $62,340 |
Salaries by Region in Nebraska:
| Location | 10% | 25% | Median (50%) | 75% | 90% |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Omaha-Council Bluffs, NE-IA | $33,110 | $40,010 | $47,620 | $59,610 | $66,100 |
| Sioux City, IA-NE-SD | $37,120 | $41,860 | $51,660 | $66,140 | $78,770 |
Freight Broker Trends in Nebraska
The employment trends for Cargo and Freight Agents in Nebraska (43-5011.00) show a positive growth trajectory for the decade from 2020 to 2030. In 2020, Nebraska had 460 employees working in this occupation. This number is projected to increase to 510 employees by 2030, representing a growth rate of 11%. Additionally, there are expected to be around 50 job openings annually over this period, which includes openings due to both growth and replacement. This trend suggests a healthy job market for cargo and freight agents in Nebraska, aligning with 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) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nebraska | 460 employees | 510 employees | 11% | 50 |
| United States | 95,900 employees (2022) | 105,200 employees (2032) | 10% (Much faster than average) | 11,000 |
Sources of Data:
Nebraska Data: The employment figures and projections for Nebraska 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 Nebraska
In Nebraska, freight brokers will earn the highest compensation in densely populated cities like Omaha and Lincoln.
This job market will continue to expand throughout the coming years, especially as e-commerce continues to increase. Freight brokers may find employment at existing brokerages or they may choose to go into business for themselves. Becoming successful will require diligent research, close attention to detail and superior communication skills. If you’re up for the challenge, freight brokerage may be a fruitful career for you.