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

Freight Brokers are an integral part of the global supply chain. They are responsible for scheduling shipments, making sure that cargo shipments connect with the appropriate freight carriers once they arrive, creating and carefully reviewing invoices and coordinating other logistic details. Choosing a career as a Freight Broker will be sure to keep you busy, as there are many aspects of this job that require monitoring, tracking and collaboration.

It is essential to have multiple skills if you’d like to be a Freight Broker in Oregon. They include having a solid grasp of the geography that the shipments will be traveling, managing time to maintain awareness of the status of all shipments, having an eye for detail to accurately review invoices, maintaining ongoing communication with shippers and carriers, and knowing which shipments require specific tariffs. These are just a few of the essential qualities of a successful Freight Broker.

Requirements to Become a Freight Broker in Oregon

There is no specific education required to become a Freight Broker. Still, applicants with a high school diploma or GED will be viewed more favorably by potential employers. There are also a few other requirements to be a Freight Broker. They must register with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Association (FMCSA) to obtain a Broker Authority License and government-issued numbers that identify each Freight Broker.

On-the-job training is possible, but taking courses to gain familiarity with the position’s requirements and the industry would be of great benefit. This is especially important if you choose to start and run your own freight brokerage.

Educational Programs Available in Oregon

It seems that programs in Oregon are limited and do not include on-campus courses.

• Treasure Valley Community College in Ontario, OR offers a six-month training program via Brooke Transportation Training Solutions that includes all information needed to run a successful freight brokerage and to complete licensing requirements. Upon completion of the program, graduates are offered the opportunity to virtually meet with industry professionals and explore career resources each week. Financial aid may be available for this course as well.

Licensing and Certification to Become a Freight Broker in Oregon

Freight Brokers in Oregon must obtain an insurance bond, license, and government-issued ID number. The numbers include a United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) Number and an Operating Authority (MC) Number. These numbers are issued to identify each Freight Broker. Registration with the FMCSA is required to apply for a Broker Authority License, to obtain the government-issued numbers and to apply for a Broker Authority License. If needed, numbers required for additional shipment types, such as a Cargo Tank (CT) Number can be obtained from the FMCSA as well.

To protect the Freight Broker against loss due to property damage or bodily injury, a $75,000 surety bond must be obtained.

Career Outlook and Salary Expectations

The number of Freight Brokers in the United States is expected to grow by 10 percent by the year 2028. In the state of Oregon, that growth is expected to be 13 percent. There were 1460 Freight Brokers in Oregon in 2018. The growth for this profession is expected to be about 170 jobs per year.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Oregon Freight Brokers made an annual average of $47,930 in 2020 or an hourly average of $23.04. The highest earners within the state made an average annual salary of $67,450. The national average salary of a Freight Broker is $43,770 per year or $21.04 per hour. So, while the growth for this profession is not as fast as some other locations, it is expected to be steady, and the pay for Freight Brokers is higher in Oregon than the national average.

Working as a Freight Broker in Oregon

Given Oregon’s climate, Freight Brokers must consider the carriers they choose and be mindful of potential delays due to snow or other inclement weather. This is especially important to plan for during the fall when shipments increase.

You can begin your career as a Freight Agent, working for a brokerage as you learn or take courses to become a Freight Broker and set up your own business. It is possible to have your own brokerage up and running within a matter of months.

Busier cities like Medford and Portland will likely have more job opportunities available. Still, if you choose to run your own business, it is even possible to be a Freight Broker from the comfort of your own home.