How to Become a Freight Broker in Nevada – Get Your License

For an up-and-coming career in Nevada, consider training to become a licensed freight broker. These professionals have flexibility in how they work, are good with details and organization, and love to work with people and problem solve. They connectc shippers and carriers to make sure shipments of goods run smoothly across the country.

Job Duties of a Freight Broker in Nevada

Companies and individuals needing to ship products and goods rely on freight brokers to make it happen. Brokers connect them to carriers that meet their needs and help them through the entire process, making sure it runs smoothly.

In more detail, here’s what freight brokers do on the job:

Maintain a database of carriers and descriptions of them
Take orders from clients needing to ship goods
Select the best carrier for each client
Arrange the shipment, including all details from start to finish
Keep clients up to date on the progress of the shipment
Problem solve if issues arise with the shipment
Negotiate prices, invoice, and collect payments
Prepare appropriate documents for each shipment
Help carries fill empty spaces in shipments

Essential skills for this job include communication, organization, attention to detail, and the ability to work independently.

Licensing for Nevada Freight Brokers

Freight brokers must be licensed to work but not through Nevada. The Department of Transportation’s (DOT) Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) licenses freight brokers. To get a license, follow these steps:

Apply for a DOT number through the FMCSA.
Purchase a surety bond or trust fund agreement for $75,000 or more.
Designate a process agent using form BOC-3.
Complete the FMCSA application for a license and submit it with the required $300 fee.

These are the minimum requirements for working as a freight broker in Nevada. Additionally, you may want to:

Complete a training program to learn about the industry and how to work as a freight broker
Become a Certified Transportation Broker (CTB) through the Transportation Intermediaries Association
Register your business as a legal entity, such as a Limited Liability Company, if you plan to work independently

Freight Broker Training Programs

Completing a training program is the best way to start this career. All you need to get licensed is a high school diploma or GED, but the industry can be confusing for newcomers. A short course will prepare you to get licensed and help you get started working right away.

In Nevada, you’ll find an online course through Western Nevada College. The program includes:

Basics of freight brokering
Setting up shipper and carrier packets
Operations software
Transportation law and contracts
Negotiation skills
Record-keeping and accounting

Career Outlook for Freight Brokers

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that 95,600 people in the U.S. worked as freight brokers in May 2020. The BLS also estimates that this number will grow over the next several years at a rate of 10 percent. While this percentage in itself is impressive, you can expect an even higher increase in jobs throughout the state, with reports highlighting a 20% growth in the industry.

What You Can Earn as a Freight Broker

According to the BLS, the national median salary for freight brokers was $43,770 per year across the U.S. in 2020. Unfortunately, average salaries are a little lower in Nevada at $29,900. Freight brokers working independently have the flexibility to set their own rates and hours. This means there is much variability in earnings.

How to Start Working as a Freight Broker in Nevada

As a licensed freight broker, you can work independently. Start a small freight brokerage business and be your own boss. Alternately, you can find employment with an existing company. If you prefer to be an employee, most jobs are available in Las Vegas, Reno, and Sparks.

Freight brokering is an excellent career for anyone who likes to work hard and is self-motivated. It’s also a good option if you don’t have time to earn a degree or spend years in school. With a short training program, you can begin working within months.