The great thing about being a freight broker is unlimited growth opportunities. New and experienced freight brokers can increase their earnings and boost success by implementing just a few tips and best practices. Read on to learn the top 7 ways you can be a successful freight broker.
1. Gain Experience
In the transportation or logistics industry, experience is what distinguishes professionals. A background in sales, customer service, logistics, or transportation can prepare you for the responsibilities that you will have as a freight broker. If you have experience as a driver, you will have unique insights into important aspects of the supply chain. However, having prior experience in specific areas is not mandatory to enter the career because on-the-job training is a respected way to gain experience. Take the time to learn as you work, and consider working for a company that provides employee training and support.
2. Build Relationships
Just like chefs need ingredients, freight brokers need relationships. Strong relationships with carriers and shippers are the ingredients for freight broker success. To be a successful freight broker, intentionally cultivate business relationships over time. Try to network with other logistics professionals and contacts from previous professional experiences, outside interests, and your community.
3. Market Your Business
Yes, freight brokers are in high demand, but competition can still be high. A strong marketing strategy can set you apart from the competition. Consider promoting your services through social media, email campaigns, posters, and flyers. Make sure that shippers know and think highly of you. It’s not common for freight brokers to be household names, but there is a first for everything.
4. Go With the Flow
Things go wrong all the time, and as a freight broker, it’s your job to fix the things that go wrong and prevent the issues from occurring in the first place. If you regularly get stressed out when problems arise, you will get burned out quickly. Come to peace with the fact that you are the strategist and shipping superhero, which often means putting out metaphorical fires. The best practice is to be proactive and communicate, and don’t stress about things you cannot control. If you need a healthy way to relieve stress, consider learning to meditate, exercise, or pick up a hobby.
5. Be Proactive
The best freight brokers are like advanced chess players. They are always thinking several moves ahead. To be a successful freight broker, always be on top of things. Proactivity will pay off greatly by improving your service quality and creating a positive reputation. It is a good idea to check in regularly with your carriers and follow up with your shippers.
6. Negotiate
Freight brokers need to be skilled at negotiating. To be a successful freight broker, ensure you are knowledgeable and confident, have a counteroffer ready, and be prepared to say no. Your shippers will rely upon you to get the best deal possible, and your carriers expect you to know the industry well.
7. Put in the Time and Effort
A significant perk of being a freight broker is that you can create your schedule and work as much or as little as you want. However, the truth of the matter is that you will get out what you put in. If you want to be a successful freight broker, put in the time and effort to build strong relationships, maximize the loads you cover, and satisfy your clients, so they trust you for all their shipping needs. Keep in mind that sometimes extra work is necessary at the beginning to set yourself up for success in the long run.
Be a Successful Freight Broker with First Star Logistics
Although freight brokers can become successful independently, it is much faster and easier to advance within a company that provides training, support, and resources.
First Star Logistics is a unique asset-based global brokerage company with over 60 years of experience. We are looking to expand our brokerage department by hiring enthusiastic individuals wanting a fast-paced career in the logistics industry. We empower you to succeed by allowing you to create your goals, networks, and make your own money. Our freight broker training program allows you to start out as a trainee, or as an experienced broker. Our talented freight brokers enjoy the highest commissions in the industry, weekly pay, proprietary software, potential sign on bonus with book of business, 24/7 agent support so you can be as productive as possible, and more customer saturation. To join the First Star team, apply today.
