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How to Become a Freight Broker in New York

Freight brokers help match shipping companies with compatible carriers who can transport loads from point A to point B. Being effective at this job will require detailed and thorough communication, as you must understand what the shipper needs and what the carrier is able to provide. Presenting yourself as a vital asset to both parties is also a key component to turning profits and establishing reliable business connections. Freight agents will often work with brokers as independent contractors, helping to source shipping companies and negotiating with carriers.

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Requirements for Becoming a Freight Broker in New York

While some trades require a college degree or other credentials, freight brokerage has simpler regulations in place. National law requires all freight brokers to earn a high school diploma or GED, along with a government-issued Broker Authority license to practice.

You can also choose to earn voluntary certification, enroll in a training program for freight brokers or complete an internship program to sharpen your skills. These are not requirements according to national regulations, but choosing to take advantage of these options will help you stand out amongst the competition. Finding an experienced professional who is willing to act as your mentor is another great option to build your skillset and improve your expertise.

New York Schools for Freight Brokers

Training programs for freight brokers will help you acquire specialized knowledge tailored to your current skillset. If you want to set yourself up for a successful career in this industry, you may want to consider enrolling in one of the programs below:

  • Freight Broker Boot Camp is based entirely online and allows students to acquire the necessary skills to become a freight broker within just 30 days. For a payment of $98, students will receive six months of full access to training articles, financial strategies, workflow diagrams, negotiating methods and much more.
  • Brooke Training allows ualified veterans to attend courses for free, and every student who completes courses receives job placement assistance. Courses are offered both online and in-person in select states.
  • Freight Movers School offers courses on brokerage basics for new freight brokers. There is also a course on improving sales for more experienced brokers. In-person courses currently take place only in Texas and Georgia. Online courses are also available, no matter where you live.

Certifications for Becoming a Freight Broker in New York

National regulations for freight brokers are set in place by the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). To obtain your Broker Authority license (also known as a Motor Carrier Operating Authority license), you will need to first register your company as a business. After doing so, you will obtain a U.S. Department of Transportation number. You must then submit this number, an application and a $300 application fee to the FMCSA. Application processing time is between four and six weeks.

It s important to note that all freight brokers are expected to carry a $75,000 surety bond at all times, according to national law.

You can become a Certified Transportation Broker by successfully completing the exam administered by the Transportation Intermediaries Association. This credential may be especially helpful to inexperienced freight brokers who want to establish themselves as knowledgeable and qualified professionals.

Career Outlook and Salary Expectations

Freight brokers in New York earned about $20.91 per hour on average, which is equivalent to an annual income of $43,480, according to Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) data from 2017. During the same year, the top 10 percent of freight brokers in this state earned an annual income of $69,880.

BLS figures indicate that during 2016, there were 6,640 freight brokers employed in this state. By 2026, this number is expected to rise to 7,350, adding 710 workers to the field over this 10-year period.

Working as a Freight Broker in New York

When it comes to freight brokerage, densely populated cities such as New York City, Buffalo and Rochester, New York, are ideal places to work, because they will have the highest amounts of freight distribution.

Patience and resilience are vital to your success in this industry. Those who are new to the craft should expect to do some foundational work before being able to generate large amounts of revenue, as maintaining relationships with shippers and carriers is key to turning profits. You may find it beneficial to work at an established brokerage company with a proven track record of success if you are completely new to the industry. After developing your skillset, building your own brokerage company will be a much smoother transition. If you believe you have what it takes, decide to grab the reins of your career by taking the necessary steps to achieve your professional goals.