Becoming a Freight Broker in Texas
Freight brokers work to negotiate, arrange and oversee the transportation of freight. When a shipper has units that need to be hauled, a freight broker will step in to find the appropriate carrier.
They negotiate with the carrier to find a price, and handle the appropriate paperwork. From there, they keep track of the delivery and update the shipper on the location and status of their shipment.
Requirements for Becoming a Freight Broker in Texas
In order to become a licensed broker, an applicant must have their certification and a surety bond. In order to succeed in the industry, proper education and training are recommended.
The minimum education requirement to become a freight broker in Texas is a high school diploma or equivalent qualification, such as graduation from a GED program. Once an applicant has finished their education courses, they can begin training to become a freight broker.
Freight Broker Classes and Educational Programs in Texas
While formal training is not explicitly required, it will teach you the necessary skills to succeed in the industry. It is highly recommended that you graduate from a broker course before moving on to receive your licensing and certification.
Freight broker training in Texas can be found at the following:
- Atex Freight Broker Training offers in-person and online training for aspiring freight brokers. Atex also offers a home study course with email support for those who want to train independently.
- Brooke Transportation Training Solutions provides in-person courses in Dallas, Texas.
- Freight Movers School has in-person classes and online courses for those interested in entering the transportation industry. They also provide online resources and guidance on how to get licensed as a freight broker.
There are also a number of other online courses and mentors to be found in Texas. They vary in price, length and density, but getting proper training is a good way to put yourself ahead in the industry.
Certification (or Licensing) for Becoming a Freight Broker in Texas
Before you can begin working as a broker, you must get the proper licensing from the state of Texas. Formal training or degrees are not required to become a freight broker, but you will need a $10,000 surety bond.
To obtain your license, you must apply with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Simply fill out the paperwork on their site, which includes the OP-1 Application for Motor Property Carrier and Broker Authority.
You will have to pay the proper fees, but once your form has been approved, you will receive a motor carrier number. From there, you can begin applying for a surety bond. With good credit, you can receive a bond for a yearly fee.
Finally, you can file your BMC-84/BMC-85 forms, along with your BOC-3 form. After a short wait, you should receive your license. Then, you can begin working.
Career Outlook and Salary Expectations
Freight brokers earn money by simplifying the transportation process. Many shippers will pay for this service if it means they can ship things faster and more efficiently. The ubiquitous nature of cargo and trade also means that freight brokers are almost always in demand.
The average salary of a freight broker is currently about $42,000 per year. You might earn more or less depending on how much work you take on. The salaries of freight brokers vary by state, but in Texas they can be more than $55,000 per year if you work within or around Dallas.
Working as a Freight Broker in Texas
Texas is a midway point for much of the United States’ freight activity, so many freight brokers have a sense of job security. Large cities like Dallas and Houston also offer more freight brokering opportunities than other cities.
If you’re interested in working as a freight broker in Texas, get the proper licensing and begin networking with potential clients. If your area is a hub for trucking and freight, you might have good luck setting up a successful freight broker business.