Evidence continues to point to how the U.S. trucking industry is vital to the nation’s economy. Trucking is one of the country’s largest revenue streams, and it moves 11 billion tons of freight (which accounts for 70% of all goods) from coast to coast.
While most people think of truck drivers – and rightfully so – as the primary operators of the transportation industry, there is another integral mover-and-shaker working behind the scenes: a freight agent.
A freight agent connects carriers and shippers in order to move materials from Point A to Point B. In a few words, freight agents love logistics and they connect truck drivers with shipments that need to be moved.
Learn more about Somerset Logistics’ Freight Broker Agent Program and agent opportunities.
What Does A Freight Agent Do?
A freight agent must have an ear to the ground when it comes to freight movement opportunities as well as a knack for assuring customers they will get their product delivered safely and on time. This requires excellent organizational, time-management, and people skills, as well as a decent grip on how the transportation industry works.
If that sounds like fun, there are also some great perks to the job:
- Earning potential is unlimited.
- Experience in the industry is not a requirement (though, it is helpful).
- Work hours are flexible.
- Every work day is different.
So, how does someone become a freight agent, exactly?
The Simplest Way to Become A Freight Agent
Don’t want to deal with acquiring licenses, surety bonds, insurance, and the financial burden to start your own freight brokerage? The simplest way to become a freight agent is to join an already-established freight brokerage company.
By becoming a freight agent for a parent company, you do not have to hold a license through the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), and you won’t have to stress over how to find the right carriers for freight; the parent company will provide you with a Rolodex of their network of carriers.
What’s more, an established freight brokerage provides agents with financial stability, proven tools, agent support, commissions, and more.
Finding the Right Freight Brokerage
Before applying to work for just any freight brokerage, you should thoroughly research the company. Especially if you are bringing any hard-earned or personal contacts to the broker, you wouldn’t want to choose a freight brokerage that could tarnish your relationship and reputation with a shipper.
Here are a few questions to ask yourself as you research and to ask the brokerage as you move through the interview process:
- Where will my responsibilities begin and end?
- Will I go through an onboarding process?
- What is the payment frequency?
- What is the company’s track record?
- Does the company have a good reputation with their customers?
- What % of commissions can I earn?
- Will I have to use or pay for my own load board?
- What kind of support do you offer if I run into complications?
Why Freight Agents Choose Somerset Logistics
A third-party logistics company based in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, Somerset Logistics is veteran owned and has more than 20 years of experience serving a multitude of industries.
Among our premium employee offerings, our agents:
- Earn 70% commission.
- Are paid weekly.
- Receive back office and 24/7 agent support.
- Have free access to user-friendly TMS and load boards.
- Are eligible for comprehensive benefits (medical, dental, vision, life insurance, and Health Savings Accounts).
Learn more about the Somerset Logistics Freight Broker Agent Program, as well as our commitment to our agents, carriers, and customers.