Becoming a Freight Broker in Nebraska – Get Your License

Freight Brokers act as liaisons between shippers and carriers, ensuring that cargo loads are transported safely across state lines. The process starts with manufacturers contacting Freight Brokers when they have goods that they want to transport. The Freight brokers then comb through their extensive database of trucking companies to find the most suitable one for the client’s needs. In addition to handling the specific cargo load, the chosen carrier must also agree with the price of the shipment and the specifics of the transaction.

Becoming a Freight Broker in Nebraska is a straightforward affair. This article will show you all you need to know regarding licenses and training. Although it will take hard work and dedication to succeed in this field, you will undoubtedly receive a lucrative and fulfilling career. To know if you will be a good fit for this role, here are the essential qualities every Freight Broker must possess:

• Excellent communication skills to understand client needs and successfully negotiate terms with carrier companies
• Good time management skills
• Meticulous planning and organization abilities
• The capacity to remain calm and level-headed when unexpected situations arise
• The ability to make quick and effective decisions

Freight Broker Licenses and Certifications in Nebraska

Like many other states, Nebraska doesn’t require a state-specific license for Freight Brokers to operate in the area. However, all professionals must register and apply for a license from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), the nationwide organization that generates and enforces rules and regulations to ensure that carrier companies operate safely and efficiently. Here are the steps needed to obtain this Freight Broker license:

• Apply for a USDOT number through the Unified Registration System (URS) (only for those who are applying for the first time)
• Obtain a Surety Bond (Form BMC-84) or Trust Fund Agreement (Form BMC-85) worth $75,000 or higher
• Appoint a Process Agent and have them apply for registration through FMCSA Form BOC-3 (A Process Agent is a legal representative in the state where you will be operating as a broker.)
• Pay the $300 application fee and wait the standard 4-6 weeks processing time

Certifications are not required to work as a Freight Broker, but it can be a considerable advantage for you to obtain one. Aside from setting you apart from others in the field, it also serves as tangible proof of your skills as a Freight Broker. Most professionals apply for a Certified Transportation Broker (CTB) certificate from the Transportation Intermediaries Association (TIA), the most widely recognized certification for brokers in the U.S.

Relevant Freight Broker Education in Nebraska

Successful Freight Brokers started by attending training and relevant courses to learn all they could about the industry. One of the most convenient things about these classes is that they are now entirely conducted on online platforms, making it easier for everyone to attend. Here are some institutions to get you started on your journey:

• Western Nebraska Community College in Scottsbluff, NE, offers a comprehensive Freight Broker training course that is taught by seasoned professionals. The training includes everything from the basics of working in the industry to tips for setting up your brokerage.
• Taltoa is an online Freight Broker training and consultancy website that offers several training packages that will suit your needs and budget. One-on-one training guaranteed placement, and expert consultations are all included in the course.

Career Outlook and Salary of Freight Brokers

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), around 480 Freight Brokers are currently practicing in Nebraska. With the long-term growth rate for this profession averaging at 10 percent, 9,500 new Freight Broker jobs are projected to become available every year.

The average hourly pay of Freight Brokers in Nebraska is $21.93, or $45,610 per year, excluding commissions and bonuses earned. This number is a little lower than the national average pay of $54,880. Higher-earning Freight Brokers, who have been working in the industry for many years or run their own businesses, have reported annual wages amounting up to $64,740.

Freight Broker Opportunities in Nebraska

Freight Broker opportunities are continuously rising, especially now that more and more goods are being transported throughout the country. Companies in Nebraska are looking to hire competent and qualified professionals, especially in its largest city, Omaha.