How to Become a Freight Broker in New York – Get Your License
If you are interested in working in the shipping industry and want an exciting career that doesn’t require a lot of time, money, or training, you should consider working as a freight broker in New York. You don’t need a state-issued license to work as a freight broker in the state, but you will need federal certification. Completing a secondary program is also optional, but it can help you gain the skills you need to work in the field in just a few short months.
What Does a Freight Broker Do?
Freight brokers are the critical point of communication between companies shipping goods and the carriers that move those goods. Freight brokers help find the best carriers within the shippers’ requirements and budget. To work as a freight broker, you must be organized, attentive to detail, and work under pressure. Excellent communication skills are also a must.
As a freight broker, you might expect to do any of the following tasks daily:
- Getting all the details of a shipment from clients
- Compiling and updating a list of carriers
- Negotiating prices
- Make sure payments are sent and received
- Follow and track a shipment from pick up to drop off
- Update clients on the progress of shipments
Do Freight Brokers Need a Degree or License to Work in New York?
Freight brokers are not regulated at a state level but rather a federal one. Brokers must register through the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration
(FMCSA). You will need to apply for a U.S. Department of Transportation number through the FMSCA website. Then you will need to purchase a surety bond of at least $75,000, complete the BOC-3 form and pay a $300 fee.
It is not required, but if you decide to work on your own, you may want to register your business as a Limited Liability Company (LLC). You may also want to consider earning the Certified Transportation Broker (CTB) credential. This will show that your competence and expertise in the field.
Freight Broker Training Programs in New York
The only educational requirement for this job is a high school diploma or GED. However, completing a freight brokering program can help prepare you to work in this field. Here are some of your educational options in New York State:
- The Ed2Go Program – This exclusively online program is offered through various colleges throughout the United States. Where you live doesn’t matter when taking this program since it is all online. The program consists of 180-course hours and can be completed in six months.
- Brooke Training – Brooke Training offers a five-day regular training course and a five-day advanced intensive training course. These courses can be completed in person at various locations throughout the United States. There is also the option to take these courses virtually.
Career Outlook and Salaries for Freight Brokers
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average hourly wage for freight brokers in New York is $26.35, or $54,810 annually. The highest-earning freight brokers in the state can potentially make as much as $82,030 annually.
Projections Central reports steady growth in the job field for freight brokers. The career is expected to see a 7.5 percent increase nationally between now and 2028. In New York, the profession is expected to see twice as much growth, with a predicted increase of 16.8 percent by 2028. This means that 880 new freight broker jobs will become available in New York annually.
How to Work a Freight Broker in New York
As a freight broker, you can either work independently or for a freight brokering agency. Working independently will allow you to work from almost anywhere and set your hours. Work can be found anywhere in the state, primarily if you work independently. However, you may find the most work in busier and more populated cities like New York City, Valley Stream and Uniondale.