How to Become a Freight Broker in Iowa

If you love the transportation industry but don’t want to spend hours on the road, you should consider being a freight broker.

As a freight broker, you’ll work with shippers and carriers to get goods to the right location in a reasonable time. 

Let’s take a look at what a freight broker does, and how you can become a freight broker in Iowa.

Freight Broker Duties in Iowa

As a freight broker, you’ll act as the middleman between shippers and carriers.

You have the responsibility of ensuring that freight makes it to its final destination at the right time. 

As a freight broker, you’ll benefit shippers and carriers.

You provide shippers with a single contact as the freight moves through the system.

It’s also your responsibility to negotiate with carriers and monitor the cargo. 

Carriers love working with a freight broker because you take over the route planning.

This allows you to plan efficient routes with fewer deadhead miles.

This makes the carrier more efficient and increases their profits. 

As a freight broker in Iowa, your duties will include:

• Developing a network of service providers
• Understanding and meeting clients’ shipping needs
• Negotiating shipping quotes and informing shippers of the quote 
• Scheduling routes and booking freight service
• Tracking the progress of shipments and keeping shippers up to date
• Maintaining detailed client records

Licensing Requirements to Become a Freight Broker in Iowa

Iowa doesn’t have any state-specific requirements to become a freight broker.

However, you will need to follow the national requirements. 

The first requirement is that you be 18 or older and have a valid driver’s license.

You’ll also need to have your diploma or GED.

If you meet these requirements, you can begin the process. 

The process is overseen by the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, or FMCSA.

The first step is applying for a transportation number with the Department of Transportation, or DOT.

They will give you a transportation number.

If you plan to work with different types of carriers, you may need several transportation numbers.

Cargo tanks, for example, require their own number. 

Next, you’ll fill out an application for the FMCSA, which includes your transportation number.

You’ll need to pay a $300 licensing fee when sending in your application.

Once you have your license, you’ll need to get a surety bond of at least $75,000.  

The last step is appointing a process agent.

This is someone who can interact with entities on your behalf.

You can choose an individual or a company to act as your process agent, however, they must have an office in Iowa. 

Now you are ready to start your career as a freight broker in Iowa. 

Freight Broker Programs in Iowa

There are no in-person freight broker training programs in Iowa.

However, there are a few online options you should consider. 

Western Iowa Tech Community College

At Western Iowa Tech Community College, you can get the freight broker training you need to succeed online.

The program costs $1,895 and takes 100 hours to complete.

You have up to 6 months to finish the self-paced course, but you can complete it much faster if you wish. 

You’ll learn the laws and terminology associated with being a freight broker, how to set up your business, how to find shippers, and negotiate rates.

You’ll also learn how to use the software you need in the industry, and how to create and fill out necessary forms. 

After graduation, you can sign up for Virtual Resource Day.

This gives you the chance to connect with broker firms looking for agents. 

Brooke Training Solutions

Brooke Training Solutions offers two training programs.

You can begin with the basic program, which will teach you the basic skills you need to become a freight broker.

This course costs $2,495. 

Once this course is complete, you can take the advanced course.

This course is $3,995.

Freight Brokers Schools in Iowa – Summary Table

Freight Broker Salary in Iowa

The average salary for a freight broker in Iowa is $53,082.

Salaries typically range from $45,878 to $60,940.

How much you earn will vary based on your location, skills, education, and experience.

Annual Salary Range: Annual Salary by Location:

Location	Avg. Annual Salary
Des Moines	$46,296
Cedar Rapids	$45,869
Davenport	$45,498
Sioux City	$41,616
Waterloo	$43,591
Iowa City	$45,495
Council Bluffs	$45,324
Dubuque	$45,252
Ames	$45,865
West Des Moines	$46,296

Regional Salary in Iowa

* 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

Are there yearly costs to be a freight broker in Iowa?

Yes.

You won’t need to renew your license each year.

However, you will need to renew your surety bond yearly.

How much this costs will depend on how long you’ve been in business, and your credit score.

Do freight brokers in Iowa need training?

While training isn’t required to become a freight broker in Iowa, it is recommended.

Training will teach you the skills you need to be successful.

It also gives you a credential that shows potential carriers and sippers that you are legitimate.

If you don’t have any experience in the transportation or shipping industry, training is even more important.

Are freight brokers in demand in Iowa?

Yes.

Demand for freight brokers is expected to grow by 30% over the five years, which is much better than average.

Freight Broker Info by State