How do I set up with freight brokers?

Create a carrier packet with your MC authority, insurance certificate, W-9, and a signed broker-carrier agreement. Submit it to brokers you want to work with. Most brokers also require you to be registered on RMIS or MyCarrierPackets for verification.

What is a carrier packet?

A carrier packet is a collection of documents brokers require before they will book loads with you. It typically includes your MC authority, USDOT number, proof of insurance, W-9 form, and a signed broker-carrier agreement.

How do I find good freight brokers to work with?

Check broker credit scores on DAT (look for 80+), read reviews from other carriers, start with established brokerages, and verify they pay within their stated terms. Avoid brokers with histories of slow payment or disputes.

How to Set Up With Freight Brokers as a New Carrier

Setting up with freight brokers is how you get access to loads as a new carrier. Without broker relationships, your MC number is just a piece of paper. With good broker relationships, you will have consistent freight, reliable payments, and a growing business. This guide covers everything from building your carrier packet to negotiating rates that actually pay what you are worth.

HOW FREIGHT BROKERAGE WORKS

Freight brokers act as intermediaries between shippers (companies that need goods moved) and carriers (you). When a shipper needs a load moved, they contact a broker. The broker posts the load on load boards or calls carriers directly. You agree to haul the load at a negotiated rate, deliver it, and submit your invoice. The broker pays you, usually within 15-30 days, or same-day if you use factoring.

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Brokers typically take a margin of 15-25% between what the shipper pays and what they pay you. Your job is to negotiate the highest rate possible so that margin comes out of their pocket, not yours.

BUILDING YOUR CARRIER PACKET

Before any broker will work with you, they need your carrier packet. This is a standard set of documents that verifies you are a legitimate, insured carrier. Your packet should include your MC authority letter from the FMCSA, certificate of insurance showing liability and cargo coverage, a completed W-9 form, the broker's signed carrier-broker agreement, a copy of your USDOT registration, and a voided check or direct deposit form.

Pro Tip: Create a professional, organized carrier packet and save it as a PDF. When a broker asks for it, send it within minutes. Being responsive and professional from the first interaction sets you apart from the majority of carriers.

FINDING AND VETTING BROKERS

Not all brokers are created equal. Some pay fast and offer fair rates. Others will lowball you, slow-pay you, or disappear when it is time to pay. Before you haul for any broker, run a credit check. Use tools like Carrier411 or the credit check features on DAT and Truckstop. Look for brokers with a credit score of 90+ and payment history of 30 days or less. Avoid brokers with multiple complaints, payment delays over 45 days, or no credit history at all.

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HOW TO SET UP WITH FREIGHT BROKERS AS A NEW CARRIER

HOW FREIGHT BROKERAGE WORKS

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BUILDING YOUR CARRIER PACKET

FINDING AND VETTING BROKERS

RTS Freight Factoring — Get Paid in 24 Hours

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HOW TO SET UP WITH FREIGHT BROKERS AS A NEW CARRIER

HOW FREIGHT BROKERAGE WORKS

123Loadboard — Try It Free for 30 Days

BUILDING YOUR CARRIER PACKET

FINDING AND VETTING BROKERS

RTS Freight Factoring — Get Paid in 24 Hours

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