If your business is growing and you have many customers to serve, it’s not easy to keep track of your logistics issues, and trucking freight brokers are invaluable business partners. However, these companies are not created equal, so how do you find the right brokerage for your business? Here are some helpful tips to consider for making the process of broker shopping, a little easier.
Check Credentials
Your broker needs to have the right qualifications. A brokerage must have a license to do business in your state. They also need a license from the FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration).
Freight Carrier Selection
Find out how the brokerage qualifies the motor carriers they use. In other words, do they use just any process or are their carriers put through stringent qualifications? For example, some companies make sure each carrier has a proven safety record and no past legal or financial issues. They also check insurance coverage, so you don’t need to worry about damaged or stolen goods
By checking out each carrier carefully, it gives you the best shipping service. It also removes a lot of work from your company, because you don’t have to check out carriers.
Shipping Services
Some trucking freight brokers only offer standard trucking services. However, the best companies offer many services. For example, if you need LTL loads, they’ll find the carrier with the most experience and lowest freight charges for LTL. Finding the best LTL rates is sometimes difficult because each carrier has different policies on LTL. A good broker knows which freight company to use for your business.
Credit Check
Do research on trucking freight brokers before you sign up. Make sure the company is not in financial dire straits. Also, check to see if they pay their freight carriers on time. For instance, the best brokers are known for prompt payment (14 days).
