Freight Brokerage Services

Freight brokers are responsible for a range of duties, often including:

• Billing: Your freight broker receives the relevant documents and prepares for the payment by submitting the invoice. Payment and freight documents may include receipts, rate confirmation and proof of delivery or a Bill of Lading.
• Transit: A freight broker stays in touch with you constantly throughout the transit process, along with your carrier. A freight broker should have advanced tracking systems to give you total visibility into the shipment’s location and the condition of the truck.
• Loading: Loading is an essential step when hauling freight. A freight broker ensures the driver doesn’t have any problems while transporting the load, stays in contact with the carrier from the beginning and notifies you of any delays. The freight carrier will sign a Bill of Lading so the driver is liable for the freight and shipping process.
• Unloading: The carrier makes note of the delivery time after unloading. Typically, the freight broker waits for the paperwork before sending you an invoice.
• Order tendering: A freight broker works with a company and reviews the request to schedule a load. Your business will provide all the information necessary during the quote process. A quote may include a particular order, standard shipment or special event. Along with contact and address information, a broker may request that you include all valuable load information like commodity type and handling conditions.
• Load scheduling: The broker enters your details into the freight transportation management system (TMS). Your broker can use this TMS to find an experienced, reputable group of carriers that can move your shipment. You can trust that the transportation freight carriers have the appropriate equipment and are licensed to accomplish your shipping journey. The broker books the load and connects with the driver to discuss handling requirements for the shipment.
• Selecting reliable carriers: The freight broker will vet its carrier base to ensure the carrier has a reliable track record and the appropriate insurance and authority. A reputable freight broker will understand the value of working with high-quality carriers and put reliability and integrity at the top of their list of priorities.
• Managing shipment logistics: A freight broker plans the journey of your shipment from start to finish. That includes arranging recovery options if something goes wrong, relaying in-transit updates, arranging pickup appointments, and arranging deliveries to help customers manage costs and optimize supply chain procedures.

Keep the following factors in mind when looking for a freight broker company to find the right fit for your business:

• Size: The size of a brokerage firm for trucking can indicate the company’s capability and capacity.
• Reliability: A reliable freight broker should ensure on-time delivery and demonstrate its ability to meet deadlines.
• Communication: A freight broker should communicate with you and offer excellent customer service.
• Ability to resolve issues: Unexpected issues can arise during transit, and a freight broker should be able to resolve them.

Costs matter to every shipper, which is why cost reduction is a common reason shippers turn to freight brokers. Since freight brokers are experts in the field, they have the connections and experience to optimize your supply chain and slash your costs. Freight brokers tend to offer lower rates because the freight volume is combined with the shippers they partner with. They can negotiate lower rates that lead to customer savings.

A freight broker should understand how freight rates are affected based on capacity. The brokerage you choose should have the resources you need and the ability to provide additional capacity as necessary.

Yes, a freight broker can use its network of load boards and logistics contacts to connect shippers and carriers.

While freight forwarders perform many similar duties to freight brokers, they also offer some additional services. These include taking possession of the cargo and becoming legally responsible for its safe arrival. Forwarders are also often responsible for customs clearance and international shipping.