How to Become a Freight Broker in Indiana

Indiana is a beautiful Midwestern state that is lush with farmland and a lot of businesses that revolve around that.

As a result, they make money by exporting many of their products to the rest of the country.

In order to do this, they need reliable sources of transportation.

This is where a freight broker comes in. 

A freight broker acts as the go-between for clients on both the shipping and transportation ends of merchandising.

For example, large lumberyards may need trucks to transport orders across the country.

They would employ a freight broker to find said transportation. 

On the other hand, trucking companies may employ a broker to find clients to transport goods to and from their facilities.

They’re basically matchmakers for merchants and transport companies.

If it weren’t for reliable freight brokers, customers end up having a shortage of supplies they need.

In order to be a good freight broker, one must have excellent negotiation skills, as well as top-notch communication and customer service skills.

They must have knowledge of computers, excellent verbal and written skills, and be well organized.

Read on for some more information about being a freight broker in Indiana.

What Are The Duties Of A Freight Broker In Indiana?

A freight broker’s main duty is to ensure they provide reliable transportation to get goods and merchandise to their destination on time and unharmed.

They must also negotiate fair prices between clients and still make a profit.

The freight broker is also responsible for filling out and providing invoices and all other paperwork to both clients.

They must provide the transportation companies with clear directions and instructions, as well as keep track of shipments to make sure they will arrive on time.

What Are The Licensing Requirements Of A Freight Broker In Indiana?

The state of Indiana does require that you apply for a license, put up a surety bond, and have insurance.

To get your freight broker license, you must first choose a company name and register it.

Then you can apply for the Federal Motor Carrier Association license.

To do this fill out the paperwork and send $300.

When your application is approved, you will be sent a license, and you can open for business.

Program For Freight Brokers In Indiana

Indiana University At South Bend

About The School 

Indiana University began in 1922 as a school to help low-income rural students gain a comprehensive education.

They continue that tradition today as a public 4-year institution serving students from all over the state.

With degree programs and workforce training done on flexible schedules to meet the needs of all students.

About The Program 

The freight broker program at Indiana University provides students with all they need to know about the transportation business.

The courses are offered online and take a total of 100 hours to complete.

Students are given 6 months to complete the courses.

The cost of tuition is $1895.

The topic of study includes laws, terminology, tools, and software, and how to set rates.

Courses will also cover how to set up your business, how to market yourself, safety, filling out invoices, and how to advertise.

Address: 1700 East Mishawaka Ave.

South Bend, Indiana 46615

Phone: (574)5204872

Website: https://southbend.iu.edu

What Is The Salary For Freight Brokers In Indiana?

The average salary for a freight broker in Indiana is about $32,323 per year.

However, when just starting out, that figure may be about $31,000 a year. 

The good news is, that depending on how much you want to work, and if you have a good reputation, your salary could be double the average.

Annual Salary Range: Annual Salary by Location:

Location	Avg. Annual Salary
Indianapolis	$46,645
Fort Wayne	$44,723
Evansville	$45,311
South Bend	$45,202
Gary	$47,917
Hammond	$47,917
Bloomington	$44,159
Muncie	$44,219
Anderson	$44,392
Terre Haute	$44,013

Regional Salary in Indiana

* Salary information based on the May 2023 Occupational Employment Statistics (OES) Survey for Cargo and Freight Agents, OCC Code 43-5011, BLS.
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some pros and cons to being a freight broker?

Some of the great things about being a freight broker are the ability to make good money, autonomy, no commute, and you can involve family members to help the business grow.

Some of the cons include stress (it’s a lot of responsibility), time constraints and commitments, and it can be long hours sitting behind a computer screen.

What is the schedule of a freight broker in Indiana?

Freight brokers are pretty much able to make their own schedules.

Most communication is done through email and texting, or through a company website, so as long as everyone has the information they need by the deadline, you can do it at any point in the day.

Is there a demand for freight brokers in Indiana?

Yes.

Freight brokers are in demand in Indiana and across the country.

In fact, the need has increased by 15% since 2014.

If I've worked in the freight industry do I still need classes to become a freight broker?

While it’s not required, it’s a good idea to take a course.

While real world experience is valuable and irreplaceable, chances are you’ll need some help in areas that formal classes will cover.

Things like contacts, legal aspects, and how to advertise are also important to your business.

Freight Broker Info by State