What Makes the Life of a Freight Broker Easier?
As one of the most reliable logistics coordinators in the country, MLM Trucking’s goal is to provide exceptional customer service and an unforgettable experience of our logistic coordinators and carriers. MLM Trucking values experienced and hardworking freight brokers, our freight brokers division is second-to-none.
MLM Trucking has extensive experience working with truck brokers. This information will help you learn how to work with a freight broker and get the best value for your money.
What is a Truck Broker?
Freight brokers provide an important service to both carriers and shippers. They help streamline the transportation process and see to it that freight is delivered as expected. Freight brokering is sometimes a tough job, as these professionals strive to make shipping cost effective and match your shipment to the right carrier.
Finding good and reputable freightbroker is tough, and those who excel at their jobs know their worth.
What is the Difference Between a Freight Broker and a Freight Agent?
Before we explore what makes the lives of a freight broker easier—as well as harder—it helps to know the difference between a freight broker and a freight agent. While some may confuse the two, the truth is that they are two separate identities.
A freight broker requires a license from FMCSA as well as a surety bond. They are responsible for various financial aspects of shipping-related tasks.
On the other hand, a freight agent is more related to sales than a freight broker. They typically solicit customers, provide rates, source carriers, and more.
What Makes a Freight Broker’s Job Easier?
Whether someone has been freight brokering for a year or a couple decades, there are several qualities that make a truck broker’s job easier. These include:
- Good communication: The truth is that proper communication can make just about anyone’s job easier. However, good communication is especially important to a freight broker. Explaining your exact needs to a freight broker can make them understand how they can help you better—which makes both parties happy.
- Be direct, but be nice: While working with a straight shooter isn’t necessarily a bad thing, it’s a different ballgame when it’s accompanied by a bad attitude. The best route to take with freight brokers is to be direct, yet friendly. This helps both parties respect one another and build a lasting relationship.
- Inspire confidence: This is your chance to help build confidence with truck brokers. You can help with the broker’s reputation, and it’s important to let them know you are trustworthy and reliable.
What Frustrates Truck Brokers?
Now that you know how you can make freight brokering easier, these are some tips on what will make the life of a truck broker more difficult:
- Lack of goals: When you don’t have a goal in mind, you won’t immediately know important things such as if you can cover a load. When you work with a freight broker, know what you want off the bat to keep the process moving along smoothly.
- Taking too much time: A freight broker has a lot on their plate. When you take too much time to make decisions, this makes their job harder. Before you begin communicating with a freightbroker, have all your ducks in a row before you even pick up the phone.
- Questioning rates (that are fair according to the market): While it’s natural to ask what’s included in a rate, don’t automatically assume that a freight broker is out to empty your wallet. There are plenty of resources online, including hot market maps, that will show you where trucking is most in demand around the country. Keep in mind that supply and demand applies when you’re working with a freight broker.
Working with MLM Trucking’s Freight Brokerage Division
Truck brokerage just got easier with MLM Trucking. Our freight brokerage division is trusted by a countless number of clients, as our experienced logistics coordinators handle the details while you continue to run your business. When you don’t have time to be bogged down by the shipping process, MLM Trucking is ready to help. Learn more about our freight brokerage division by calling 412-331-8200.