Trade Schools
The logistics, supply chain, and transportation industry are the lifeblood of US commerce, where logistics experts seamlessly connect product manufacturers with licensed motor carriers.
These licensed carriers deliver their cargo to distribution centers, retail locations, and directly to consumers across the country.
Freight Brokers act as logistics agents who help orchestrate the delivery of goods from end to end.
They serve as a primary point of contact for shippers and carriers and work in an administrative capacity to find loads, negotiate rates, issue shipping contracts, and ensure that all parties involved in the shipping process comply with US transportation law.
What’s in The Guide?
Our best online freight broker guide provides an overview of some of the best online freight broker training programs available in the US.
We’ll discuss freight broker program basics, online courses offered, and important information the agencies that regulate freight broker licenses.
The guide begins by providing an introduction to the role of today’s freight brokers and tells you where to learn more about top industry certifications.
Later, we provide a detailed list of some of the top schools in America that offer online freight broker training.
Freight Broker Job Description
Freight Brokers are America’s middlemen who connect manufacturers, transportation providers, and customers using a curated logistics network and strategic planning skills.
Many of today’s brokers work as independent agents from home or as employees of large-scale brokerages.
The primary role of independent agents and large freight broker agencies is to act as intermediaries that move cargo across the country using expert logistics skills.
Freight brokers work with shippers and manufacturers to move goods across the globe using airline, train, truck, ship, and rail transportation.
They also carry out the following duties.
- Prepare Bills of Lading
- Analyze Bills of Lading
- Assess Shipping Charges
- Collect Carrier Payments
- Disburse Carrier Payments
How do Freight Brokers Get Paid?
Brokers can take online programs to work as independent agents or as employees of larger brokerages.
They earn commission and deduct their fees from the shipping costs paid by product manufacturers and cargo shippers.
Entry-level freight brokers in the US make comfortable salaries that increase over time as they enhance their sales and negotiation skills.
Top US Freight Broker Certifications
Certified Transportation Broker – CTB
Certified Transportation Brokers have been awarded one of the most highly respected certifications in the transportation and logistics industry.
CTB certificates are awarded by the Transportation Intermediaries Association.
Certified Freight Broker – CFB
The National Customs and Brokers Forwarders Association of America issues the Certified Freight Broker certification for third-party logistics providers who operate in the US.
This multinational organization issues Certified Freight Broker (CFB) and Certified Customs Specialists certificates (CSS) for qualified providers.
Where Do Freight Brokers Work?
Freight Brokers can work alone as independent contractors from home.
They can also work for third-party logistics companies, transportation companies, and large brokerages.
Become a Domestic Freight Broker in 5 Easy Steps
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Complete a high school diploma program or have proof of an equivalent.
- Enroll in a freight broker training program online or take in-person class work.
- Apply for a license with the United States Department of Transportation.
- Register for a USDOT number by visiting the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration website online.
What is a USDOT Number?
The DOT number is a seventeen-digit number assigned to all licensed US-based motor carriers.
The Department of Transportation requires Freight Brokers to have DOT numbers because they act on behalf of shippers and carriers moving goods across the country.
The FMCSA and other regulating authorities use the DOT number to track information for individual drivers, shipments, and motor carriers to ensure that all parties comply with federal transportation rules and adhere to safety standards when transporting cargo on US roads.
Now that you understand what it takes to become a freight broker, let’s talk about some of the best online programs!
Best Online Freight Broker Programs (Complete Guide)
If you’re looking to embark on your career as a licensed freight broker or if you’re looking to enhance your existing brokerage skills, this is the guide for you!
Below, we provide a comprehensive overview of online freight broker training programs based in the US.
These programs offer domestic freight broker training and continuing education options for active brokers.
The best online freight broker program guide highlights critical information, including program details, a detailed description of course offerings, and contact information for each program.
#1. – Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi
About the Program
Texas A&M University has a six-month online freight broker training program that teaches newbies the basics of owning and operating their brokerage business.
Students who enroll in their self-paced, online course via open enrollment learn how to become a freight broker and manage a successful brokerage.
Their program includes elements of transportation-related laws, how to request DOT numbers from the FMCSA, and top freight broker certifications for professionals who want to make a lifelong career out of operating and managing a freight brokerage firm.
Courses Offered
- Transportation Law
- Broker-Carrier Contracts
- Broker Shipper Agreements
- Insurance for Carriers and Brokers
- Develop Your Negotiation Skills
Contact Information
Address: 6300 Corpus Christi Drive, Corpus Christi Texas
Website:https://workforcetraining.tamucc.edu/training-programs/freight-broker-training/
Phone: 855-520-6806
Program Cost: $1,895.00
#2. – Borough of Manhattan Community College
About the Program
The online freight broker training program presented by the Borough of Manhattan Community College in New York teaches students the basics of the industry and how to register their brokerages with the FMCSA.
Students who take this course will learn how to find the best carriers for shippers, negotiate the best shipping prices, track shipments from end to end, and get a surety bond required for operating a freight brokerage firm in the United States.
Courses Offered
- US Transportation Law
- Digital Marketing for Brokers
- Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration Requirements
- Setting Up Shipper and Carrier Packets
- Setting Shipping Rates
Contact Information
Address: 199 Chambers Street, New York, NY 10007
Website: https://www.bmcc.cuny.edu/ce/online-courses/online-freight-broker-agent-training/
Phone: (212) 220-8000
Program Cost: $124.00-$374.00
#3. – University of Central Missouri – Warrensburg, Missouri
About the Program
Students who want to break into the freight brokering industry can take online classes from The University of Central Missouri in Warrensburg.
Their online freight broker training program teaches students the basics of brokering, how to set realistic goals and develop a corporate identity, freight brokerage operations and management, and how to earn more money as a broker by earning top freight broker certifications or choosing a niche.
Courses Offered
- Broker-Carrier Contracts
- Industry Terminology
- Freight Types
- Freight Brokerage Operations
- Transportation Law
Contact Information
Address: PO Box 800 – Warrensburg, Missouri 64093
Phone: 660-543-4111
Program Cost: $1,895.00
#4. – San Diego State University – Global Campus
About the Program
San Diego State University’s Global Campus provides online freight broker training for US-based students in partnership with Ed2Go.
Its online program prepares new brokers to set up their business operations, negotiate rates with shippers and carriers, and manage shipping contacts.
This six-month online course is self-paced and provides students one hundred hours of online instruction.
Courses Offered
- Foundational Aspects – Freight Brokering
- Freight Broker Software
- Freight Broker Contracts and Forms
- Carrier and Shipper Packets
- Rate Quotes
Contact Information
Address: 5250 Campanile Drive, San Diego, California – 92182
Phone: 855-520-6806
Program Cost: $1,895.00
#5. – Florida Agriculture and Mechanical University – Tallahassee, Florida
About the Program
Florida’s Agricultural and Mechanical University offers its online freight brokerage program in partnership with online education provider Ed2Go.
Students who take this course will learn how to start their brokerages from the ground and earn a freight broker certificate in domestic freight brokering.
Certificate holders will be prepared to apply for their USDOT numbers upon completion by registering with the FMCSA.
Courses Offered
- Freight Brokering Basics
- Freight Broker Negotiation Skills
- Sales and Profitability
- Advanced Digital Marketing
- Carrier Relations
Contact Information
Address: 668 Robert and Trudie Perkins Way, Tallahassee, Florida – 32310
Phone: 850-599-3796
Program Cost: $1,895.00
#6. – Santa Fe College – Gainesville, Florida
About the Program
Santa Fe College in the Sunshine State offers an online domestic freight broker and freight agent training program through the continuing education department in its Gainesville location.
Their online freight broker training teaches students how to own and operate a domestic freight brokerage and the laws, rules, policies, and procedures required to remain compliant with Department of Transportation and FMCSA laws.
In this online course, students will learn how to open, operate, market, and pitch their business to prospective clients.
Courses Offered
- Domestic Freight Broker Basics
- Insurance – Surety Bond
- Recordkeeping
- Quotes
- Negotiation Skills
Contact Information
Address: 3000 N 83rd Street, Gainesville, Florida- 32606
Phone: 352-395-5000
#7. – University of West Florida – Pensacola, Florida
About the Program
The Continuing Education Department at the University of West Florida in Pensacola has an online freight broker program that teaches prospective brokers the business basics from start to finish.
Their self-paced program teaches students to comply with US transportation laws, secure new businesses, and manage shipping contracts.
They also teach students to how to request FMCSA licensure to remain compliant with US transportation standards.
Courses Offered
- Domestic Freight Brokering Basics
- FMCSA Registration and Licensing
- Surety Bonds
- Shipping Contracts
- Freight Broker Operations
Contact Information
Address: 11000 University Parkway, Pensacola, Florida – 32514
Phone: 850-473-7468
Program Cost: $1895.00
Freight Broker Program – Courses Offered
While each freight broker program will offer its own syllabus and course curriculum, the following courses are typically found as the foundation of online freight broker training programs.
- Introduction to Freight Brokerage
- Legal Regulations and Compliance
- Freight Pricing and Rate Negotiation
- Transportation Modes
- Contracts and Legal
- Sales and Marketing
- Risk Management and Insurance
- Customer Service and Communication
- Technology and Software
- Business and Operations Management
Tools and Resources Needed for Online Freight Broker Training
- Most online freight broker classes can be accessed using a desktop PC or Mac computer.
- You will need a solid internet connection, privacy, and the ability to download other program-related software as your instructor requires.
- Adobe Acrobat Reader for downloading course syllabus and related program documents
- An active email address for registration, receiving grades, and communicating with your online instructor about the program.
*Your instructor will advise you of the required instructional materials you will need to enroll and complete your freight broker training online.
Can You Earn Freight Broker Certification Completely Online?
Yes! Aspiring brokers will be happy to know they can complete their freight broker training programs online.
New freight brokers can apply for state and federal licensure online with the US Department of Transportation and FMCSA after successfully completing an online training program.
Many of the programs listed above make it easy for new brokers to get started by offering year-round enrollment options and self-paced study.
Flexible scheduling and attendance options allow students to log on for online freight broker training at the most convenient times and take classes at their own pace.
How Long Does it Take to Earn Freight Broker Certification Online?
Students who get freight broker training online typically complete their programs within six months to one year.
How Much Does Online Freight Broker Certification Cost?
Today’s online certification program costs range from $200 – $3000.00.
Program type, location, and course length can impact costs.
Contact your program provider to learn about costs, scholarships, and financial aid options for your desired program.
Final Thoughts
Now that you know more about the best online freight broker programs in the US, are you ready to take the next step toward embarking on this rewarding career?
Becoming a successful freight broker requires prospective students to develop strong communication skills and follow US regulations and federal transportation laws.
It would be best if you were also determined and committed to excellence as an independent freight broker.
If becoming a freight broker is the next logical step in your career, learn more about the online programs available for US students.
Once you’ve chosen a program and completed your enrollment, prepare to significantly impact the US supply chain and the global economy!
